Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is the name given to an infection in any part of the urinary system, usually by bacteria. Bacteria enter the urinary system through the urethra, or more rarely, through the bloodstream.
Symptoms of urinary tract infections
The symptoms of urinary infection are often termed cystitis or urthritis, although this terminology more accurately refers to inflammation of the bladder or urethra which may be caused by diseases other than those of bacterial origin.
The symptoms of UTI can vary, depending on whether the infection affects the lower (bladder and urethra) or upper (kidneys and ureters) parts of the urinary tract.
Lower urinary tract infection symptoms
- Burning sensation on passing urine.
- Need to pass urine more frequently than normal.
- Need to hurry to the toilet to pass urine.
- Urine can be cloudy with an offensive odour.
Upper urinary tract infection symptoms
People with upper urinary tract infection are likely to experience the symptoms above, plus:
- Feeling unwell.
- Having a high temperature and chills.
- Loin (kidney) pain.
- Patient is likely to be ill and could require hospital admission.
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