What are the symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are commonly encountered bacterial infections that affect the urinary system. The symptoms of UTIs can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. The most common symptoms of UTIs include:

1. **Pain or burning sensation during urination**: One of the hallmark symptoms of a UTI is a burning sensation or pain when urinating. This is often caused by irritation of the urethra due to the presence of bacteria.

2. **Frequent urination**: Individuals with UTIs may experience an increased urge to urinate, even when the bladder is not full. This symptom is known as urinary frequency.

3. **Urgency**: Along with frequent urination, UTIs can also cause a sudden and urgent need to urinate. This symptom can be distressing and may lead to incontinence in some cases.

4. **Cloudy or strong-smelling urine**: UTIs can cause changes in the appearance and odor of urine. Urine may appear cloudy or have a strong, unpleasant smell due to the presence of bacteria and white blood cells.

5. **Blood in the urine (hematuria)**: Hematuria, or the presence of blood in the urine, is another common symptom of UTIs. This can give the urine a pink, red, or tea-colored appearance.

6. **Pelvic pain**: Some individuals with UTIs may experience discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent.

7. **Fatigue**: UTIs can cause systemic symptoms such as fatigue, malaise, and general feelings of unwellness. These symptoms are more common in severe or recurrent infections.

8. **Fever**: In more severe cases of UTIs, individuals may develop a fever as the body’s immune response tries to fight off the infection. Fever is a sign of a more serious infection that may have spread to the kidneys.

It is important to note that not all individuals with UTIs will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. If you suspect you have a UTI based on these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.