A urinary tract infection is a common reason that women set up an appointment with their primary care specialist or women’s care provider, and while it may not seem like the most pressing health issue, an infection can certainly cause problems for your body if you don’t proactively treat the condition.
With that in mind, we wanted to use today’s blog to spot some of the more common symptoms of a UTI. Below, we take a closer look at five signs that may suggest you’re dealing with a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms Of A Bladder Infection
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it would be wise to consult with your women’s care specialist. In the event that the presence of bacteria has led to a UTI, you’ll need to be prescribed an antibiotic. As we mentioned above, untreated urinary tract infections can lead to severe kidney problems, so don’t ignore these five warning signs.
-
Burning Sensation When Peeing – One of the most obvious signs of a UTI is when you experience a burning sensation when urinating. Oftentimes it is most noticeable near the urethra, where your urine comes out.
-
Foul Smelling Urine – Another sign that something is amiss along your urinary tract is a foul smelling urine. The presence of the bacteria and infection can lead to a number of physical changes for your urine, including how it smells. You may not always pay close attention to the color or clearness of your urine, but you may notice that it is accompanied by a different smell, and that could be caused by a UTI.
-
Frequent Urination – If you’re noticing that you are having more frequent urges to use the bathroom, this could be due to the presence of an infection. More frequent bathroom trips isn’t always a sign of a UTI, but if you are finding that you’re only releasing a small amount of urine that is disproportionate to your urge to pee, a urinary tract infection could be to blame.
-
Dark, Discolored or Cloudy Urine – Healthy urine tends to range from nearly clear to deep yellow, but that may not be the case if you’re dealing with a UTI. If your urine appears brown, pinkish or cloudy, you may be seeing the effects of an infection.
-
Fever or Chills – Finally, the presence of a fever or the chills is an indication that your body is currently working to fight off foreign bacteria and an infection. In most cases, the above symptoms are more noticeable during the early stages of a UTI, while a fever or the chills may suggest that the infection has become a little more severe. Absent the above symptoms, a fever or chills may suggest an infection in a different area of your body. Regardless, it’s a good idea to get an evaluation from a professional.
UTIs are quite common and can be treated effectively, especially if you are aware of the symptoms and you take quick action if you suspect you have an infection. For more information about urinary tract infections, or to talk to your care provider about a different women’s health issue, reach out to the team at MetroPartners OBGYN today at (651) 770-3320.