Urinary tract infections, also known as UTIs, can be difficult to spot initially. They mainly occur when bacteria move up from one’s urinary tract to infect the bladder or kidneys.

There are several different types of urinary tract infections: cystitis, urethritis, and pyelonephritis. Cystitis almost always occurs in women, and only affects the surface of the bladder. Urethritis happens when the urethra becomes inflamed. Urethritis can occur if you are sexually active with a partner who has a STD, if you experience trauma to the region, or have catheterization. Lastly, pyelonephritis is the most complex. Pyelonephritis occurs when bacteria have spread from one’s kidney to their bloodstream. This condition is much more serious and can be severe if untreated.

But what exactly are the signs of having a UTI? What about men specifically? Symptoms of a UTI may include: urinary frequency, urinary urgency, strong urine odor, burning or pain with urination, bed wetting, nausea, and the strong urge to urinate with only a tiny amount coming out. It is crucial to recognize and remember these symptoms so that you can catch a urinary tract infection before it develops into a more severe form, such as pyelonephritis. Pyelonephritis’ main symptoms consist of back pain and fever.

Most doctor’s use the terms “lower-tract” and “upper-tract” to describe which areas of the body the urinary tract infection affects. Upper-tract infections occur in one’s kidneys or ureters. On the contrary, lower-tract infections occur in one’s urethra, bladder, or prostate.

So how does one exactly get a UTI? There are several circumstances that can cause a UTI, but generally people who are sexually active, experience constipation, have diabetes, use condoms with spermicides, have a blockage, or have abnormal urine drainage are at a much higher risk.

If you believe you may have a urinary tract infection or pyelonephritis, visit AAU today. The main form of treatment for UTIs are antibiotics. Additionally, at Athens Area Urology, we work to find the root cause of your UTI, so that future ones can be prevented.