Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
What is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A urinary tract infection, UTI, is an infection affecting part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. UTIs are extremely common and can affect both adults and children, although women experience them more frequently due to anatomical differences. Most infections involve the bladder or urethra, but if left untreated, they can spread to the kidneys and cause more serious illness.
In children, UTIs often present differently and may be linked to bladder dysfunction, constipation or anatomical issues. Paediatric UTIs require careful assessment to prevent recurrent infections and long-term kidney complications.
What causes a UTI?
Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, most commonly E. coli, which normally live in the bowel. Infection occurs when these bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply.
Several factors increase the risk of infection. Women are more prone due to a shorter urethra. Sexual activity, pregnancy and hormonal changes during menopause can contribute. In men, an enlarged prostate or prostate inflammation may prevent proper bladder emptying, increasing the risk of infection. Long term catheter use, urinary tract abnormalities and conditions affecting bladder emptying can also lead to recurrent UTIs.
In children, delayed bladder maturation, constipation, withholding urine and structural differences may play a role.
Who is affected?
UTIs can occur in people of all ages. Adults may be affected due to lifestyle factors, hormonal changes, prostate conditions or medical issues that interfere with bladder emptying. Older adults may develop UTIs due to reduced immunity, catheter use or incomplete bladder emptying.
Paediatric UTIs are particularly common in younger children and may present with fever, irritability, vomiting or reduced feeding rather than typical urinary symptoms. Prompt assessment is important to protect kidney health.
Common symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the location of the infection.
Adults may experience pain or burning when urinating, an urgent or frequent need to pass urine, cloudy or strong smelling urine or blood in the urine. Pelvic discomfort or a general feeling of being unwell is also common.
More severe symptoms, such as fever, chills, nausea or back pain, may indicate a kidney infection.
Children may present with fever, irritability, abdominal pain, daytime wetting or a return to accidents after a period of dryness.
What are the possible complications of a UTI?
When treated early, most UTIs resolve completely. If left untreated, however, complications can occur.
How is a UTI diagnosed?
Steps that may help reduce the risk include:
Diagnosis usually starts with a urine test to check for signs of infection. A urine culture can identify the specific bacteria and guide antibiotic treatment.
Imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan may be recommended in severe or recurrent infections, or if abnormalities are suspected. Children with repeated UTIs may require imaging to evaluate kidney and bladder structure and function.
Preventing UTIs
Good hydration, regular urination and avoiding holding urine for extended periods can reduce risk. Women should wipe from front to back and may benefit from urinating after sexual activity. Wearing breathable underwear and avoiding harsh soaps or sprays in the genital area promotes urinary tract health.
Children should follow healthy toileting routines, avoid constipation and stay hydrated.
Men with prostate conditions should receive regular medical review.
How do you treat a UTI?
Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics, and it is important to complete the full course even if symptoms improve. Pain relief can help manage burning or discomfort, and drinking plenty of water assists in flushing out bacteria. Avoiding bladder irritants such as caffeine and alcohol during infection may also help.
Severe infections, particularly those affecting the kidneys, may require hospital treatment with intravenous antibiotics. People with recurrent UTIs may need longer courses of treatment or preventative strategies.
When should you see a doctor?
You should seek medical advice if you have persistent painful urination, frequent urination that does not improve, blood in the urine, fever, chills or new back pain. Recurrent infections, difficulty emptying the bladder or symptoms that do not respond to treatment also require assessment.
Children with fever, poor feeding, irritability, unexplained vomiting or suspected UTI symptoms should be seen promptly to protect kidney health.
Need to talk?
If you are concerned about urinary tract infections in yourself or your child, our team is here to help. We can provide assessment, investigation and a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Book an appointment to discuss your symptoms, treatment options and ongoing care.
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