Causes, Signs and Types of Urinary Tract Infections

UTI (urinary tract infection) may occur in the urethra, bladder, ureters, or any other part of the urinary system. Most of the time, patients get infections in the lower urinary tract that involves the urethra and bladder. The risk of developing urinary tract infections is high in women. If the infection is in the bladder, it can be annoying and painful. When you suspect that you have a urinary tract infection, visit a clinic for urgent care in Laurel Maryland as if the infection spreads to kidneys, this can have serious consequences. Doctors use antibiotics to treat infections in the urinary system. 

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection 

Some patients don’t even experience any signs or symptoms of any infection in the urinary tract. However, you may experience the following symptoms: 

• Strong-smelling urine 

• Cola-colored, bright pink or red urine. This may indicate that there is blood in your urine

• Cloudy urine 

• Burning sensation when you urinate 

• Frequent or urgent urination      

• Passing a small amount of urine more frequently 

• Pelvic pain

Many other conditions may also have similar signs and symptoms. A patient may develop different types of infections in the urinary tract. 

The following table illustrates signs and symptoms of infections developed in different parts of the urinary system: 

Causes of Urinary Tract Infections  

Bacteria entering your urinary tract can cause urinary tract infections. Bacteria begin to grow in your bladder. Your urinary system has the natural ability to get rid of bacteria and other microscopic invaders. However, this natural ability fails sometimes. Escherichia coli (E. coli) causes Cystitis, an infection developed in the bladder. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is common in the GI tract (gastrointestinal tract). Certain other types of bacteria can also cause this infection. Urethritis is an infection developed in the urethra. Mycoplasma, chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes and other sexually transmitted infections also cause urethritis. Book an appointment with a doctor for urgent care in Laurel Maryland if you suspect that you have developed any of the urinary tract infections.