Urinary Tract Infection

Key facts

• A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria, usually from the gut, colonize the urethra or bladder; it's one of the most common bacterial infections and affects women far more often than men.
• Hallmark symptoms are burning when passing urine, frequent and urgent trips to the toilet, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine, often with a dull ache low in the abdomen.
• Most uncomplicated UTIs clear with a short course of antibiotics, commonly nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, cefuroxime, or roxithromycin, depending on the bacteria and local resistance patterns.
• Fever, chills, or back or side pain alongside UTI symptoms need same-day medical attention as they can signal a kidney infection.

Recognising the symptoms

The hallmark signs are a burning sensation when passing urine, frequent and urgent trips to the toilet, and urine that looks cloudy or smells unusually strong. A dull ache or pressure low in the abdomen is common too. Some people notice only one or two of these signs; others experience all of them at once.

How UTIs are treated

Most uncomplicated UTIs clear with a short course of antibiotics. Nitrofurantoin is widely used for bladder infections and works directly in the urinary tract. Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum option often chosen when nitrofurantoin isn't suitable. Cefuroxime and roxithromycin may be selected depending on the bacteria involved and local resistance patterns. Drinking generous amounts of water throughout treatment helps flush bacteria from the bladder and speeds recovery.

When to seek urgent attention

See a doctor the same day if you develop fever, shaking chills, or pain in the back or sides below the ribs. These point to a possible kidney infection (pyelonephritis), which needs a longer and often different antibiotic course. Blood in the urine, pregnancy, and UTIs in young children or older men also call for prompt medical review rather than self-treatment.

Reducing the chance of another infection

Staying well hydrated is the single most useful habit. Other practical steps include urinating soon after sex, wiping front to back, avoiding holding on for long once the urge comes, and choosing breathable underwear. If UTIs keep recurring despite these measures, a doctor can investigate whether an anatomical or hormonal factor is involved.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.