Urinary tract and bladder infections cause unpleasant symptoms that can come on quite quickly. A urinary tract infection or UTI involves any part of the urinary system. This may include the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys. While women tend to be more prone to UTI, men and children can also get them.

Symptoms of a UTI may include:

• Frequent urination
• Pain or burning with urination
• Cloudy or dark-colored urine
• Red or blood-tinged urine
• Pain in the low abdomen
• Passing small, frequent amounts of urine
• Pain in the lower back or the kidney area

With proper treatment, most UTIs will resolve without any lasting complications. However, when not treated, a UTI could cause problems like these:

• Kidney damage
• Risk of premature delivery in pregnancy
• Narrowing or stricture of the urethra
• Sepsis (severe infection)

Some people will develop recurrent or chronic UTI. This may require a referral to a urologist. Most UTI will be treated with antibiotics.

There are a few things you can do to prevent UTIs from happening. Try these:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water
• Females wipe from front to back
• Empty your bladder soon after intercourse
• Avoid scented feminine hygiene products