Affecting over eight million women every year, Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the most common causes of outpatient visits by women. Women are more prone to this bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary system, like the bladder, kidneys, urethra, and ureters. More commonly, the infection affects the lower urinary tract (the bladder and urethra).

In severe cases, however, the kidneys might also be affected. More than 40% of the women population here in the country are estimated to experience a UTI at least once in their lives. This percentage is much lower (12%) in the case of men. Here are some early warning signs of a urinary tract infection one should not ignore. Consult a doctor immediately if one notices any of the following.

1. Irritation in the bladder and urethra
The lining of the bladder and urethra become red when there is a urinary tract infection. There is also irritation, a tingling sensation, and pain in the pelvic area.

2. Urge to urinate often
An overwhelming urge to pass urine frequently is one of the early warning signs of UTI. However, despite this compulsive pressure, only a small amount of urine is passed each time. Sometimes, a few drops of urine might even leak before one reaches the bathroom because the conscious control over the bladder weakens. This false sense of urgency is a typical symptom of a urinary infection.

3. Pain when urinating
There can be a burning feeling or pain when urinating. It could be because of the presence of white blood cells or pus in the urine. These cause inflammation in the walls of the bladder. The inflamed tissues are extremely sensitive and result in painful urination. Along with an uncomfortable throbbing and ache, inflammation exerts pressure on the muscarinic receptors located in the bladder’s lining. It gives the intense feeling of urinating frequently and immediately.

4. Abdominal pain
Urinary tract infections cause pain in the lower abdomen. Sometimes, there is pressure in the belly and pain in the pelvic area and lower back. Initially, this pain could be sharp and intermittent. As the UTI progresses, this pain might become acute.

5. Changes in the color and smell of urine
Urine that is ordinarily clear or light yellow might now appear darker or cloudy. Besides, urine is odorless. When there is an infection, it might emanate a foul, pungent smell. It happens because of the presence of infection-causing bacteria. In some cases, urine can become grey, pink, or red, indicating the presence of bacteria and blood in it.

6. Pain in the back
Persistent pain, soreness, or pressure in the lower or middle is an indication that the urinary infection has spread from the bladder to the kidneys. Accompanying this pain is a low-grade or high fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting.

7. Exhaustion
All the above symptoms of a urinary tract infection weaken the body and leave one exhausted. The immune system responds slowly to a UTI initially. Once it starts fighting the disease and recovery starts, all the energy of the body is diverted towards fixing the problem. This process can be draining and cause fatigue.

Ideally, it is easy to treat urinary tract infections in the initial stages. But, when it becomes severe, one must treat it without delay. If not treated on time, the infection spreads and induces nausea and vomiting. UTI can damage the kidneys irreparably, cause gonococcal urethritis in men or result in sepsis, a life-threatening illness.