Symptoms Of A Urinary Tract Infection

Burning When Peeing

Patients with lower urinary tract infections frequently report a sensation of burning while urinating. This symptom is due to the bladder and urethra involvement associated with infections of the lower urinary tract. It occurs both inwardly and outwardly during urination. The sensation may linger for a short time afterward as well, primarily because of the reaction area is having with the bacteria. Since the bacteria is coating the urinary tract, as urea passes through it, the bacteria is spread further and responds to its presence. The bacteria, once attached to the walls of the urinary tract, causes inflammation of those sensitive walls to occur.

In addition to burning while urinating, women with this infection could experience pelvic pain, and men with lower urinary tract infections might notice some rectal pain. The burning sensation is typically most severe as the patient begins to urinate. To ease the pain of this symptom, doctors may be able to prescribe an analgesic (pain reliever) that numbs both the bladder and urethra, and most patients note a reduction in pain after starting an antibiotic to treat the underlying infection. The use of a heating pad or warm compress on the abdomen can help minimize bladder discomfort, and drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria from the body.

Pain In Back Or Abdomen

Like a fever, if an individual feels pain in their back or abdomen, they may be looking at a possible infection that has spread to their kidneys. The body often uses pain as a way to tell the individual they are unwell. If the pain is consistent, there may be some cause for concern. Because kidney infections can damage the kidney and reduce kidney function, it's especially critical to visit a doctor to receive treatment quickly to reduce the damage.

The severity of the pain can differ with the severity of the infection. Sometimes, patients may only feel it when they urinate. Or they may only feel it when they sit a certain way and put pressure on their bladder or kidneys. Either way, if individuals feel pain or cramping in their back, abdomen, or sides, it may be time to set the cranberry juice aside and visit a doctor. Individuals who already have kidney problems, or who are pregnant, have diabetes, or other immune problems should especially act quickly.