If you have bladder problems, you are at risk of developing urinary tract infection. It is important that you recognise the different symptoms of UTI, as untreated UTI can be harmful to your bladder and kidneys.
Some symptoms are obvious signs of UTI. But be aware of other symptoms, which are more subtle and therefore harder to recognise as UTI-symptoms.
Symptoms that may be related to UTI:
- Pain or discomfort when passing urine
- An urge to pass urine frequently
- Cloudy and strongly smelling urine (unrelated to foods that can cause urine odour)
- Blood in the urine (enough blood to make the urine the colour of cranberry juice)
- Unexpected leakage
- Fever/sweating or chills
- Pain in the bladder (above pubic bone area)
- Pain in the kidney area (lower back area)
How to check if you have a urinary tract infection (UTI)
Your physician may perform a quick urine test which can give a rough indication of whether or not bacteria are present. To determine whether you do have a UTI, your healthcare provider will check with a urine cultures and may also want to take a blood test in order to assess other factors. If you suffer from recurring UTIs your doctor may want to have you see a urologist for further testing.
How do I prevent UTI?
There are a number of precautions to prevent urinary tract infections. Read more about how to prevent UTI here.
