Your urinary tract includes your kidneys, bladder and the urethra, which is a tubelike structure that takes the urine from your bladder to the outside of your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria enters your body through the urethra and multiplies in the bladder. Sexual activity, some types of contraceptives, menopause, urinary tract abnormalities and conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of developing a UTI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Urinary tract infections can be familiar to many, but self-diagnosis and home remedies can be risky<\/a>. Urinary tract infections and kidney stones have similar symptoms, and you\u2019ll need an evaluation by a medical professional to get the right diagnosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A urinary tract infection can happen anywhere from the kidneys to the urethra. The kidneys and the ureters, which carry urine to the bladder, are part of the upper urinary tract. The bladder and urethra are parts of the lower urinary tract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A bladder infection<\/a>, also known as cystitis, specifically refers to an infection localized in the bladder, causing it to swell and become irritated. A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a serious condition. Bacteria can enter the kidneys from the bloodstream or move up from the bladder. Symptoms of a kidney infection include fever, back pain, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting. If left untreated, a kidney infection can lead to complications such as sepsis, kidney disease<\/a> or kidney damage. If you suspect you have a kidney infection, seek medical attention promptly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases<\/a>, women are more likely to develop UTIs because they have a shorter urethra than men, meaning a shorter distance for bacteria to travel. Plus, the opening to the urethra is closer to the rectum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In men, urinary tract infections are less common and require in-person medical attention for urinalysis. An enlarged prostate can make it difficult to fully empty the bladder, indicating an underlying condition that may need attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can use Norton eCare<\/a> video visits, or eVisits which require no video \u2014 just answer a few questions online from anywhere in Kentucky or Indiana for care without coming into the office. Your provider can order drive-thru lab testing for you at Norton Healthcare Express Services<\/a> if it\u2019s needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Norton Now<\/a> includes same-day care options so you can get the care you need, when you need it and where you need it. Norton Community Medical Associates primary care offices<\/a> are located across Louisville, Southern Indiana and beyond. Save your spot in line at a Norton Immediate Care Center<\/a> or visit a Norton Prompt Care<\/a> clinic for treatment of minor injuries or illnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Urinary tract infection symptoms include:<\/p>\n\n\n\nUTI Symptoms<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n