A infection, or UTI, originates from the bladder, kidneys, uterus or urethra. Most often, a UTI involves the part of the urinary tract nearest to the urethra, since UTIs are often caused by bacteria such as fecal matter coming in contact with the urethra and traveling up the urinary tract.
Frequent Urination
Urinating often in small quantities is a common sign of a UTI. The feeling of being in a constant state of having to urinate is also common. Having to wake up several times during the night to urinate is perhaps the most telling sign that one may have a UTI, since most people's need to urinate is suppressed during sleep. It is usually not normal to have to urinate more than once during a night.
Discomfort
Another common sign of a UTI is experiencing discomfort while urinating. Sometimes this discomfort is barely perceptible, but other times it might be a sharp, burning sensation. The consistency of the urine can also tip one off to a UTI. The presence of blood in the urine or an unusually strong smell can also mean that you have a UTI.
Bladder Infection
If the infection moves up to the bladder, several other symptoms are likely, including fever and a general feeling of malaise. The lower part of the belly may feel strangely uncomfortable or painful, like someone is pushing down on it slightly.
Kidney Infection
If the UTI advances to the kidneys, more serious symptoms may begin to manifest. High fevers are likely, as is pain higher in the back or along the sides where the kidneys are located. Becoming nauseous and throwing up is also likely. Sometimes the skin begins to flush, becoming warm to the touch, while chills and shaking are also possible. Fatigue, confusion and extreme abdominal pain are also potential symptoms.
Complications
Since UTIs take time to advance through the urinary system, it is usually possible to identify them and receive the proper treatment before they become severe. Sometimes the infection will clear up without medical treatment or by using home remedies, such as drinking lots of water or cranberry juice, or eating blueberries. If a UTI spreads to the kidneys and is not treated, it can potentially cause permanent kidney damage.
Tags: urinary tract, , during night, that have