A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial inflammation in the urinary tract. If left untreated, a UTI can cause permanent damage to the bladder and kidneys. How does it occur? Bacteria that multiply and spread result in a urinary tract infection. These bacteria can cause the following: •  Cystitis (bladder infection). •  Pyelonephritis (kidney infection). •  Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra, the tiny canal that is located just above the vagina between the vagina and clitoris, which carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body). •  Urethral syndrome (painful urination without evidence of bacterial infection in the urine). Bacteria that cause a UTI often spread from the rectum to the urethra and then to the bladder or kidneys. Urinary tract infection is more common in women because the urethra is short, making it easy for bacteria to spread. Bacteria can also spread from another part of the body through the bloodstream to the urinary tract. Infections often occur above the urethra in the ureters (the muscular tube through which urine passes from the kidney to the bladder) or kidneys. There is a more likely occurrence in women who: •  Are postmenopausal. •  Are newly sexually active. •  Are pregnant. •  Have a history of diabetes, sickle-cell anemia, abuse of analgesics or kidney stones. Symptoms The symptoms of urinary tract infection are: •  Blood in the urine. •  Change in amount of urine. •  Fever. •  Frequent need to urinate. •  Nausea and vomiting. •  Pain during sexual intercourse. •  Pain in the lower pelvis, stomach, lower back or side. •  Pain or discomfort (burning) when urinating. •  Pus in the urine. •  Shaking chills. •  Strong-smelling urine. •  Sweats. •  Uncontrollable urge to urinate (incontinence). Diagnosis Your physician will diagnose urinary tract infection by a review of your symptoms and ordering some lab tests. The lab tests may include a urinalysis and urine culture. If you have repeated bladder or kidney infections, the physician may order an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). An IVP is an x-ray of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The physician may also use ultrasound to look at the urinary tract. A cystoscopy (looking at the inside of the bladder with a small telescope) may be needed for repeated infections or persistent symptoms. Treatment Urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics. If treatment is interrupted after the symptoms are relieved, but before the scheduled end of the treatment, the infection may recur. Untreated infections can result in kidney damage. In severe kidney infections, a hospital stay may be necessary in order to give antibiotics into the veins. How long will symptoms last? The symptoms may disappear 24 hours after treatment begins or they could last as long as the infection lasts. Medication for painful urination can be prescribed. Self-care To relieve symptoms you can: •  After a bowel movement, wipe yourself from front to back to prevent the spread of germs. •  Avoid frequent and prolonged soaking in the tub. •  Avoid strong soaps, douches, antiseptic creams and feminine hygiene products. •  Change underwear and panty hose every day. •  Drink plenty of fluids. •  Empty your bladder completely when you urinate. •  Keep your genital area clean. •  Urinate soon after sexual intercourse. •  Wear all-cotton or cotton-crotch underwear and pantyhose. For a fever: •  Stay in bed if your fever is over 100 degrees F (38 degrees C). •  Drink plenty of fluids. •  Ask your physician what medication you should take to control your fever. •  Keep a daily record of your temperature. To relieve cramps or stomach pain, you may use a hot water bottle or heating pad on a low setting. Call your physician if your symptoms continue or if you develop new symptoms.