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Most of the time, it’s easy to tell when you have a urinary tract infection. But for some individuals, it can be hard to know when you have a UTI or another condition. More so, it can be equally hard to pinpoint what exactly caused it. 

How can you know for sure that you have a UTI and how can you indicate where it came from? There are several different reasons why someone may have contracted a UTI (e.g. sex, poor health, or poor diet). But when you don’t know the source of your symptoms, it can be frustrating.

While recognizing a UTI and understanding where it originated is complicated, it doesn’t have to be hard. We’ve compiled a list of information below regarding UTIs so that you can better understand when you’re suffering from one or not. 

When you notice that you’re suffering from a UTI, don’t hesitate to go see a doctor.

Do You Have These UTI Symptoms?

uti symptomsThere are two kinds of urinary tract infections: urethritis and cystitis.

  • Urethritis is the infection in the urethra
  • Cystitis is the infection in the bladder

No matter if your UTI is in the urethra or the bladder, it is important you seek medical treatment. If left untreated, a kidney infection can occur as the infection can travel through your bloodstream and result in sepsis.

In order to identify your UTI symptoms, you should be able to recognize them. Below are the 6 most common signs you have a UTI: 

  • You are feeling a frequent and urgent need to pee 
  • You are feeling a burning sensation or pain when you pee
  • You are feeling cramps or soreness in your back, lower belly, or sides
  • You can see pus or blood in your urine
  • The urine has a bad or foul odor
  • Your urine is cloudy

Keep in mind that these are early UTI symptoms (i.e., the infection hasn’t yet reached the kidneys). If your kidneys get infected, you may experience:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea 
  • Pain in your mid-back
  • Drowsiness or fatigue all the time

If you have any of these UTI symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately. Kidney infections are serious and, if left untreated, can result in sepsis or kidney failure.

NOTE: These UTI infections can often be caused by vaginitis or sexually transmitted diseases. This is another reason to talk to a medical professional as only they can diagnose whether you have a UTI or another condition.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?

A UTI occurs when one or more pathogens enter and multiply inside your urinary tract, infecting one or more of the following organs:

  • Bladder
  • Urethra
  • Ureters
  • Kidneys

If you are displaying any of the UTI symptoms mentioned earlier, the first thing you need to know is it’s very common and easily treatable. In fact, it is estimated that 60% of women and 12% of men will contract at least one UTI in their lifetime.

Bacteria that lives in the genital and anal areas can enter the urethra which will then travel to the bladder and cause an infection. This usually happens during sexual activities when bacteria from your partner’s fingers, genitals, sex toys, or anus get pushed into your own urethra.

Urinary tract infections are not spread from one person to another like STDs. But if you or your partner has a UTI and you engage in sex, it can worsen the condition. 

Contact 24 Hour Docs To Get Quick Relief From Your UTI Symptoms 

If you are experiencing early UTI symptoms, it’s best you speak with a doctor to ensure the infection doesn’t worsen. A quick video consultation with one of our board-certified doctors will keep your fears at bay while you receive the necessary prescriptions. If you live in California, feel free to call us at 877-244-6876 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today!