Urinary Tract Infection

Also known as: UTI, Urine Infection

Category: UrologicalICD-10: N39.0

A UTI is a bacterial infection of the bladder or kidneys, much more common in women.

Symptoms

  • Burning while passing urine
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Cloudy or smelly urine
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Fever (kidney infection)

Causes

  • Bacteria, usually E. coli

Risk factors

  • Female sex
  • Low water intake
  • Diabetes
  • Pregnancy

Complications

  • Kidney infection

Treatment overview

Antibiotics chosen ideally after urine culture, plus plenty of fluids.

Prevention

  • Drink enough water
  • Do not hold urine for long

When to see a doctor

If you have fever, back pain or recurrent infections.

Medicines used

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection?

Burning while passing urine, Frequent urge to urinate, Cloudy or smelly urine, Lower abdominal pain, Fever (kidney infection)

What causes Urinary Tract Infection?

Bacteria, usually E. coli

How is Urinary Tract Infection treated?

Antibiotics chosen ideally after urine culture, plus plenty of fluids.

How can Urinary Tract Infection be prevented?

Drink enough water, Do not hold urine for long

Medically reviewed by

Medical review pending

Last updated

9 October 2026

Sources

  • World Health Organization fact sheets
  • ICMR and MoHFW national guidelines
  • National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)

This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.

This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.