What it is
Most people get better with a course of antibiotic tablets. Some need treatment in hospital.
A urine test after treatment may be done, and repeated infections may need further tests.
Common signs
- Pain in the side, lower back or around the genitals
- High temperature and shivering
- Feeling sick or vomiting
- Pain or burning when peeing
- Cloudy, smelly or bloody pee
How it is usually diagnosed
- Urine test and culture
- Blood tests
- Kidney ultrasound if infections keep happening
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Urine culture results
- Antibiotics used
- Kidney scan reports
- Discharge letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which antibiotic do I need and for how long?
- Do I need any scans?
- How can I reduce the chance of another infection?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Confusion, fast breathing, cold blotchy skin, very high or low temperature, or being unable to keep antibiotics down: call 112, it may be sepsis
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.