Urinary tract infections (UTIs), also known as urinary system infections, are inflammations caused by bacteria invading the urethra, bladder, ureters, or kidneys. While many people recognize frequent urination and urgency as the typical symptoms, UTIs can also present with other signs such as painful urination, abnormal urine, lower back pain, and fever.

Lower urinary tract infections: Symptoms are primarily concentrated during urination, mainly involving the urethra and bladder. Common manifestations include:

1.Painful urination or a burning sensation in the urethra: Significant stinging or burning pain during urination.

2.Discomfort in the lower abdomen or perineum: A sensation of heaviness, dull pain, or pressure.

3.Abnormal urine: Urine may become cloudy or have an odor; in severe cases, hematuria (blood in urine) or pyuria (pus in urine) may occur.

4.Difficulty urinating: Some patients may feel a frequent urge to urinate but pass only small amounts each time.

Systemic symptoms are usually mild in these cases; most people do not develop a fever, or only experience a low-grade fever.

Upper urinary tract infections: These may be accompanied by fever and lower back pain, primarily involving the ureters and kidneys, with acute pyelonephritis being a typical example. In addition to frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination, symptoms may also include:

1.Fever and chills: Elevated body temperature, possibly accompanied by shivering and sensitivity to cold.

2.Lower back pain: Often manifesting as soreness or distending pain on one or both sides of the lower back, which is more pronounced upon percussion.

3.General malaise: Such as fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

If high fever, chills, or significant lower back pain occur, it indicates that the infection may have reached the kidneys. Seek medical attention promptly and do not try to endure it.

Reminder : A small number of patients do not present with typical symptoms, especially the elderly, individuals with diabetes, or those with weakened immune systems. They may not experience obvious painful urination but instead show symptoms such as fatigue, poor appetite, abnormal urine, or even changes in mental status. Xiao En reminds you to remain vigilant if you experience frequent urination, urgency, painful urination, blood in urine, lower back pain, or fever. It is recommended to visit the Department of Urology as soon as possible for diagnosis through tests such as urinalysis and urine culture. In daily life, you can drink an appropriate amount of water, avoid holding urine, and maintain personal hygiene. Please follow medical advice regarding medication.

The above content is for health education purposes only. If you feel unwell, please seek medical attention at a legitimate medical institution.