Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is basically caused by bacteria that have entered through the bladder through the urethra, which may also travel to the kidneys. In most cases, our body may fight these bacteria by itself. However, there are cases in which our body may not be able to fight off these bacteria. This includes cases in which contributing factors are present that increase the risk of a UTI, such as diabetes, kidney stones, bowel incontinence, and more.

 UTI Symptoms and UTI Diagnosis Tools

Below is a guideline for some of the common UTI symptoms. It is wise to advise your physician about any symptoms you may be experiencing. Some people with a UTI are asymptomatic (no symptoms). Symptoms of a bladder infection may be similar to  a kidney infection.

UTI diagnosis tools are valuable in offering a more conclusive diagnosis. Timely diagnosis through testing is critical as kidney infections require prompt appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of complications that may become life threatening.

• If your urine is cloudy, bloody in color, and/or may also have a foul or strong odor along with it, you may have a bladder infection, known as Cystitis. Other common symptoms of a bladder infection include: low fever, burning feeling or pain while urinating, cramping or feeling some pressure in the lower abdomen area or the back, and urinating more often than usual.

• If you experience chills or night sweats, a general ill flu like feeling, fatigue, high fever, feeling of dull or throbbing pain in flank, back, or groin, strong urine odor, flushed or reddened skin, nausea, loss of appetite, or sometimes severe pains in the abdominal area, you may have a kidney infection, also known as Pyelonephritis.
  

Your Physician Consultation

Your physician will inquire about any symptoms you have, may inform you of other symptoms to look for, and will complete an evaluation to assist in identifying a UTI. Then, he or she may confirm the initial impression by conducting a series of urine tests.

• Urinalysis is performed to detect the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, and select chemicals like nitrites in the urine. Most of the time, urinalysis is the only test performed to diagnose an infection.

• If bacteria are found, a Urine Culture will be performed in order to identify the type of bacteria present in the urine sample. This is important to determine the right antibiotic for the individual.
  

 Special Considerations

If your UTI is harder to diagnose or there appears to be more complexity related to the condition, there are different tests that may be performed in order to identify the problem in your urinary tract and the primary cause for your condition. With these tests, your physician may more easily identify the problem in your urinary tract.

• CT scan, focused on the abdomen area.

•  Intravenous Pyelogram.

• Kidney Scan.

• Kidney Ultrasound, in some cases, the result may appear as Kidney Stones, but may be a different condition, such as, UPJ Obstruction.  

•  Voiding Cystourethrogram.

Next Visit, UTI Treatments

It is important to recognize that select initial diagnostic tests may not offer fully conclusive results about individual’s overall condition. In addition, all medications and medical procedures are associated with benefits and risks that should be discussed with your physician. It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition.