Urinary infections are quite common, especially in women. However, some signs indicate that the infection is severe and requires immediate medical attention.

Failure to treat a urinary infection can lead to complications such as kidney damage, bloodstream infections, and even death. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the signs of a urinary infection that require medical attention.

1. Painful urination

Painful urination is one of the most common signs of a urinary infection. You may feel a burning sensation or discomfort when urinating. The pain may be located at the opening of the urethra or deep within the bladder.

Often, this pain worsens towards the end of urination. If you experience painful urination, it’s important that you seek medical attention immediately.

2. Frequent urination

Another sign of a urinary infection is the need to urinate frequently. You may feel like you need to empty your bladder, even if it’s empty. In some cases, you may only pass a small amount of urine at a time.

If you’re urinating more often than usual, it could be a sign that you have a urinary infection that needs medical attention.

3. Blood in urine

Seeing blood in your urine can be a very alarming sign of a urinary infection. The color of your urine may turn pink, red, or brown.

Blood in your urine means that there is inflammation in your bladder or urethra, and it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. In some cases, blood in urine could be a sign of more serious conditions like bladder cancer, so it’s important to get medical attention right away.

4. Abdominal pain or discomfort

If you have abdominal pain or discomfort, it could be a sign of a urinary infection. The pain may be located in your lower abdomen, just above your pubic bone. You may feel a constant ache or cramping sensation.

Sometimes, the pain can be so severe that it’s mistaken for appendicitis. If you experience abdominal pain in combination with other urinary infection symptoms, it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately.

5. Fever and chills

If you have a fever and chills, it could be a sign that your urinary infection is severe and has spread to your kidneys. A high fever is typically defined as 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

A fever and chills could also indicate a more severe bacterial infection, such as a bloodstream infection. If you have a fever and chills and also experience other urinary infection symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

6. Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are a couple of symptoms that could accompany a urinary infection. Nausea and vomiting may be caused by the body’s response to an infection. They may also be caused by a severe kidney infection.

Nausea and vomiting, especially if they’re severe, require medical attention.

7. Strong smelling urine

Strong smelling urine is a symptom of a urinary infection that could indicate that the infection is getting worse. Sometimes, strong smelling urine is a sign that there are more bacteria in your bladder.

Often the smell associated with a urinary infection is quite strong and unpleasant. If your urine has a strong odor, it’s important to seek medical attention to prevent complications.

Urinary infections can cause discomfort and pain, and if left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems. Knowing these seven signs, you can seek medical attention as soon as possible and get the appropriate treatment.

If you suspect that you have a urinary infection, it’s important to see a doctor right away. With prompt treatment, most urinary infections clear up quickly and without complications.

Conclusion

Urinary infections are common and can be easily treated. However, if the infection is severe, it can cause serious complications. These seven signs indicate that you may have a severe urinary infection and require medical attention.

If you suspect that you have a urinary infection, don’t hesitate to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery.