How to Recognize the Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection

Physician and Patient

A urinary tract infection is an infection in any part of the urinary system which may include the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra. The most common urinary tract infections (UTIs) are found in women, but men can experience them as well. Many UTIs are caused by an overgrowth of E-coli bacteria that is found in the gastrointestinal tract and has taken habitat in the urinary system, however other bacterial infections can also cause UTIs.

What Are Symptoms of Having a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

Symptoms of having a UTI can include mild pelvic discomfort, fever, nausea, flank pain, and even vomiting if the kidneys become infected. Although men and women can both suffer from UTIs, women are four times more likely to get UTIs than men. People who are immunocompromised may also be at a greater risk of developing such.

Specific symptoms can include:

  • Pressure in your lower abdomen
  • Pain or burning sensation when urinating
  • Pain just below the ribs
  • Fever and fatigue
  • A foul odor from the urine
  • Discolored urine which is cloudy, pink, reddish, or sometimes even brown colored
  • An urge to urinate more frequently

What Causes a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

For the most part, our bodies are very efficient of keeping bad bacteria out of areas it should not be. However, sometimes our body’s defense mechanisms fail, and the body allows bad bacteria to invade areas it should not be present. When the bacteria invade, they begin to multiply which creates an infection and which in return causes the unpleasant symptoms.

How Do You Treat a UTI?

If you are experiencing any of these UTI symptoms, or suspect that you may have one, please take advantage of our walk-in clinic or schedule an appointment at any of our 3 Victory Medical locations-Austin, Westlake or Cedar Park.  Our team is ready to assess your symptoms with rapid testing to determine if you have an infection and stand ready to help you feel better as quickly as possible. Medications can be available at our onsite pharmacies (Austin & Cedar Park) as soon as your visit is completed.

Victory Medical is a multi-specialty practice with locations in Austin, Westlake, Cedar Park, and Marble Falls. We offer various services and are a one stop shop for your needs. Services we offer include: Family Practice, Heartwise Physicals, Pharmacy, Urgent Care, Natural Hormone Replacement, MedSpa, CoolSculpting®, Allergy Treatment, Physical Therapy, and Weight Loss.