The Effects of a Urinary Infection

Urinary tract infections are common, especially in women. Even so, having an infection can slow you down, and if left unresolved it can result in serious complications. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with an infection and speed recovery.

Identification or Symptoms

• Urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms vary. But the typical indicators of an infection include burning or stinging during urination and frequent urination.

Effects

• These infections result from bacteria entering the urinary tract. Along with painful and frequent urination, bacteria in the urinary tract may also produce foul-smelling urine or blood in the urine.

Complications

• Bladder infections are typically mild and respond to treatment. But if left untreated, infections can spread and lead to life-threatening kidney problems. Signs of a kidney infection include flank pain, vomiting, chills and a fever.

Prevention/Solution

• Doctors prescribe antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections. In addition to medication, at-home treatments for infections include increasing your water intake to flush bacteria from the urinary tract and taking vitamin C to strengthen the immune system.

Time Frame

• With treatment, urinary tract infections improve in three to seven days.