Symptoms Of A Urinary Tract Infection

Fatigue And Shakiness

Fatigue and shakiness may develop if a patient has a severe urinary tract infection. These symptoms are more likely to occur if the infection is present in the upper part of the urinary tract and impacts the kidneys. Along with fatigue and shakiness, individuals with an infection of the upper urinary tract could develop fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting, and they might notice pain in the upper back and along the sides of the body. Patients with these symptoms should seek urgent medical attention.

Upper urinary tract infections are generally more serious than lower urinary tract infections; this is because the infection can easily spread from the kidneys into the bloodstream, potentially leading to life-threatening urosepsis. The fatigue, shakiness, and other symptoms associated with an upper urinary tract infection normally resolve with successful treatment of the infection. Doctors routinely use antibiotics to treat these infections, and patients who have serious infections may need to take these for at least six months. Hospital treatment may be needed for particularly serious infections.

Strong-Smelling Urine

Strong-smelling urine is typically associated with lower urinary tract infections. For patients with urinary tract infections, strong-smelling urine is generally the most noticeable the first time the patient urinates in the morning, which is the time when the urine is most highly concentrated. Some individuals may notice a change in the normal smell of their urine, and others may note a foul odor. Patients should mention these changes to their healthcare provider, especially if they are experiencing pain during urination or any other symptoms that could indicate a urinary tract infection.

To investigate potential causes of strong-smelling urine, doctors will begin by asking the patient for a urine sample. The sample is analyzed for bacteria and the presence of blood, and doctors might send the patient's urine to a lab for a urine culture. If indicated, ultrasounds and other imaging studies can be performed to obtain further information about a potential urinary infection or other causes of strong-smelling urine. For most patients, any strong urinary odor resolves when the urinary tract infection is successfully treated.