A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects your bladder, kidneys, and ureters. A woman’s urethra is shorter than a man’s, which means that women are at a higher risk of developing this infection.

UTIs can be painful, irritating, and cause damage to your body if they go untreated. However, the signs and symptoms of a UTI are not always clear, which is why it is very important to know the dangers of untreated UTI and seek out medical attention when necessary.

Signs and Symptoms of UTI

UTIs may start in the bladder and move up to the ureters and kidneys. Below are some of the signs and symptoms:.

Painful and Frequent Urination

The need to urinate often, but only being able to pass small amounts of urine can be a symptom of a UTI. This discomfort and urgency can make you feel like you constantly have to urinate.

In some cases, you may experience a burning sensation in the urethra while urinating.

Lower Abdominal Pain and Discomfort

Feeling sick or experiencing lower abdominal pain can also be an indication of a UTI. This may be a sign that the infection has spread to the bladder or kidneys.

Strong-Smelling Urine

Urinary tract infections can cause urine to have a strong and unpleasant odor, which can be very noticeable. In some cases, the urine may appear cloudy, dark, or contain blood.

Fever or Chills

A high fever and chills are often a sign that a UTI has spread to the kidneys. This is a severe case and requires immediate medical attention.

Complications of Untreated UTIs

If left untreated, UTIs can cause serious complications, including:.

Persistent Infection

If a UTI is not treated, the infection can continue to grow and spread throughout the urinary system and eventually lead to long-lasting or chronic urinary tract infections. Chronic infections can cause permanent damage to your kidneys and bladder.

Septicemia

A UTI might lead to septicemia, which occurs when bacteria from the infection enters your bloodstream and spreads throughout your body, causing a life-threatening condition.

This could result in infection in the vital organs like your lungs, brain, and heart.

Pyelonephritis

If your UTI spreads to your kidneys, you will develop pyelonephritis. This condition is often characterized by intense back and abdominal pain, fever, confusion, and vomiting.

Treatments for UTIs

The only way to treat a UTI is to see a doctor and get a correct diagnosis. Most UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, which can kill the bacteria causing the infection and prevent the infection from spreading further.

Your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments to manage the symptoms, including drinking plenty of fluids to flush out the bacteria. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to manage severe pain and control the symptoms of the infection.

Prevention of UTIs

Preventing UTIs is easy and involves making some lifestyle changes, including:.

Stay Hydrated

The best way to flush out bacteria from your urinary tract is to drink plenty of water daily. Staying hydrated reduces the concentration of bacteria in your urinary tract, thereby reducing the risk of UTIs.

Practice Good Hygiene

Cleanliness is fundamental when it comes to keeping UTIs at bay. After using the bathroom, make sure to wipe from front to back to prevent harmful bacteria from spreading from the anal area to your urinary tract.

Also, make sure to practice good hygiene when it comes to personal hygiene, and sexual activity, by washing your hands before and after.

Empty Your Bladder Regularly

Urinating regularly flushes bacteria from your urinary tract before it has an opportunity to multiply and cause an infection.

Avoid Certain Products and Habits

Avoid using scented feminine products, sanitary pads, and tampons that can irritate your urethra and cause infection. Also, avoid using perfumed soaps, bubble baths, and oil-based lubricants.

Smoking and drinking both weaken your immune system, which puts you at a higher risk of developing UTIs.

The Bottom Line

UTIs are common, particularly in women, and they can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Some of these complications can be life-threatening, so it is essential to seek medical attention anytime you experience symptoms of a UTI.

Remember to practice good hygiene, stay hydrated, and avoid habits that increase your risk of developing a UTI.