Urinary tract infection (UTI)

A UTI is an infection of the urinary system, most often the bladder, causing burning when passing urine, frequency and urgency. Most are treated effectively with antibiotics; symptoms with fever or back pain may mean a kidney infection and need prompt care.

Symptoms

  • Burning when passing urine
  • Frequent, urgent urination
  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
  • Lower-abdomen discomfort
  • Fever/back pain suggest kidney involvement

When to see a doctor

  • Burning urination with frequency/urgency
  • Fever, back pain, or blood in urine (more urgent)
  • Symptoms in pregnancy or in a child

FAQs

When is a UTI an emergency?

Seek prompt care if you have fever, chills, back/flank pain or blood in the urine — these can signal a kidney infection, which is more serious than a bladder infection.