What Are the Symptoms of a Lower Urinary Tract Infection?

A lower urinary tract infection involves the urethra and bladder and is the most common type of these such maladies. According to the Mayo Clinic, women are more susceptible to lower urinary tract infections than men. Here is a look at several symptoms that accompany these infections, including changes in urinary habits, a burning sensation and changes in urine properties.

Change in Urinary Habits

• When a lower urinary tract infection is present it is usually accompanied by a strong urge to urinate, and, hence, more trips to the bathroom. Ironically, it's possible very little urine will pass.

Burning Sensation

• One of the most common signs of a urinary tract infection is a burning sensation during urination or just after completion, while some describe it as pain or pressure.

Change in Urine Properties

• As a result of the infection, urine often has a strong odor, foamy quality, and a dark yellow or tea color. Blood, while often present, is typically not visible unless the infection is severe. In addition, the urine will test positive for high levels of bacteria and possibly protein.

Considerations

• Some people don't experience any symptoms with a urinary tract infection and are unaware that it is present until a doctor tests a urine sample. This is referred to as an asymptomatic infection and is much more likely to travel further into the urinary system before being detected. If an individual has asymptomatic urinary tract infections often, a doctor will often prescribe an antibiotic to be taken daily as a preventative measure.

Risks

• Prompt treatment is necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys, which can be much more serious. A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, often requires hospitalization to administer intravenous antibiotics to the patient. While a fever sometimes accompanies a lower urinary tract infection it is much more common during a kidney infection.

Prevention

• According to the Mayo Clinic, there are several steps you can take to prevent a urinary tract infection, including staying well-hydrated, always wiping your bowels from front to back, wearing cotton underwear, urinating soon after intercourse, and avoiding using perfumed soaps and other personal hygiene products.