What it is
Mild infections sometimes get better by themselves. Antibiotics are often prescribed, and drinking enough fluids and taking painkillers can help.
People who get UTIs often may be offered tests to look for a cause, or advice and treatment to prevent them.
Common signs
- Pain or burning when peeing
- Needing to pee more often or urgently
- Cloudy, smelly or bloody urine
- Pain low in the tummy
- Feeling tired or unwell
- Confusion or agitation in older people
How it is usually diagnosed
- Questions about symptoms
- Urine dipstick test
- Urine culture
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Urine test and culture results
- GP notes
- Antibiotic prescriptions
- Kidney or bladder scan reports
Questions to ask your doctor
- Do I need antibiotics?
- What can I do to prevent it coming back?
- Do I need further tests?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A high temperature with shivering, pain in the back or side, vomiting or confusion: get urgent help the same day
- Feeling very unwell, very confused or drowsy: call 112
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.