Urinary tract infection: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see

For urinary tract infection you can first see: Family Medicine or Urology or Internal Medicine. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.

Common symptoms: burning and stinging when passing urine; going often and passing small amounts; a sudden urge that is hard to hold; lower abdominal pain; cloudy, foul-smelling or bloody urine; if it spreads to the kidney: fever, shivering and flank pain. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.

The most common causes: bowel bacteria (most often E. coli) entering the urinary tract; the short urethra in women; sexual intercourse; holding urine for long periods and not drinking enough water; an enlarged prostate in men; diabetes and pregnancy. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.

A simple bladder infection clears within a few days with the right treatment. An infection that has spread to the kidney needs longer treatment and close follow-up.

A family doctor or Internal Medicine is suitable for the first visit. For recurring infections or infections in men, Urology; in pregnancy, Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Some mild cases may, but if untreated it can spread to the kidney. If you have symptoms, have a urine test.

Some studies show a small benefit in reducing recurrences, but it does not treat the infection. It should not be used instead of treatment.

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is there high fever, shivering and pain in the side of the back?” “Are you unable to keep fluids down because of vomiting?” “Are you pregnant?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”

See a doctor: the burning and frequency do not go within 1–2 days; always for men, children and pregnant women; it comes back more than 3 times a year; you see blood in your urine.