A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. A bad UTI can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, ranging from mild to severe.
The most common symptom of a UTI is a burning sensation when urinating. Other symptoms include a frequent and urgent need to urinate, pain in the lower abdomen, cloudy or bloody urine, and fatigue. In some cases, a fever may also be present.
If left untreated, a bad UTI can lead to serious complications such as a kidney infection, sepsis, and even death. Kidney infections can cause permanent damage to the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure. Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition in which the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection, leading to widespread inflammation throughout the body.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a UTI. Your doctor can perform a urinalysis to diagnose a UTI and prescribe antibiotics to treat it. Drinking plenty of fluids and urinating frequently can also help flush out the infection.