Language
Contact Us
Back to All About Care

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect people of all ages and backgrounds — even our pets! In fact, health care professionals have reported UTIs as one of the most common health issues worldwide, diagnosing over 400 million cases annually — that’s more than the population of the U.S.!1

The big picture

  • UTIs, sometimes called bladder or kidney infections, are responsible for 10.5 million office visits and 3 million emergency room (ER) treatments each year in the U.S.2 
  • About 60% of women and 12% of men will have at least one UTI during their lifetime.3
  • Recent studies show 41 – 66% of ER visits are considered preventable, meaning they could have been treated in a non-urgent setting.4
  • An ER visit can cost two to three times more than a visit to your primary doctor.5 

Why it matters

Rather than waiting for hours in the ER to be treated for a UTI, know your care options, including our network of high quality primary care providers and virtual care. 

By understanding what UTIs are, who’s at risk, and how to prevent them, you can take control of your health, save time, money, and feel better faster.

What is a UTI?

A UTI is an infection that happens when bacteria enter your urinary system (kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra), sometimes referred to as a bladder or kidney infection. It typically begins when bacteria from outside the body enter the urethra, travel to the bladder, and then multiply, causing inflammation and irritation.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

The intensity of UTI symptoms can vary with each person, but below are the most common. Remember, your doctor has seen it all before, so don’t be embarrassed to speak up if you’re experiencing any of these signs.

  • A pain or burning feeling when urinating
  • Frequent urge to urinate, even if little comes out
  • Cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
  • Pressure or cramping in the groin or on either side of your lower back, just above your hips

DOCTOR'S NOTE: If you have bloody urine, fever, nausea, vomiting, or flank pain, seek medical care immediately — it may indicate the infection has spread.

Who's at risk?

  • Women of all ages, including pregnant, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal
  • Children, especially girls and uncircumcised boys
  • Men with enlarged prostates or kidney stones
  • Those with diabetes, kidney disease, suppressed immune systems, etc.
  • People born with conditions affecting the urinary tract
  • Those who have a catheter or have had a recent kidney transplant

Aging and UTIs: What caregivers need to know

Aging bodies experience changes that make us more susceptible to UTIs. Weakened immune systems, hormone level shifts, and bladder control problems are all contributing factors. If you are a caregiver, monitor for these additional signs that could indicate an infection.

  • Agitation
  • Delirium
  • Confusion — especially those affected by dementia6
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Low blood pressure

Where do I go for care?

If you suspect you have a UTI, don’t wait to get care. Here are some convenient and effective options for getting the care you need:

  • Primary care doctors: Your primary care doctor is your best resource for early treatment of a UTI. They know your medical history and can provide personalized care. If you don’t have an in-network primary care doctor, consider choosing one to help you get and stay healthy.
  • Urgent care and retail clinics: If your primary care doctor isn’t available for a same-day appointment, check to see where your local in-network urgent care or retail care clinics (e.g., CVS or Walgreens) are located. Urgent care clinics can provide faster and cost-effective treatment for UTIs, often at a lower cost than the ER. Before visiting a retail clinic, call ahead to confirm that they treat UTIs.
  • Virtual care: Virtual care options, such as online consultations, may provide convenient and rapid care for UTIs. If your health care provider doesn’t offer virtual care, check with your insurance provider to see if virtual care options are covered under your plan.

DOCTOR'S NOTE: At-home UTI test kits can be a helpful starting point, but they shouldn’t be relied upon for a definitive diagnosis. If you suspect a UTI, it’s always best to consult with a doctor for a thorough evaluation and personalized care.

How are UTIs treated?

If left untreated, or if treatment is delayed, UTIs can lead to severe complications, such as kidney damage, sepsis (a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs), and even kidney failure. But the good news is they’re treatable when caught early!

  • Antibiotics: Doctors determine the best course of treatment, which may include antibiotics, antifungals, or antiviral medications.
  • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen: Over-the-counter pain relievers help manage symptoms until you finish your antibiotics.
  • A warm heating pad: Applying a heating pad to your belly helps relieve bladder pressure or discomfort.
  • Avoid drinks that may irritate your bladder: Avoid coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks containing citrus juices or caffeine until the infection has cleared, as they irritate your bladder and increase the need to urinate.
     

DOCTOR'S NOTE: Take the full course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

How can I prevent UTIs?

Here are some tips for preventing UTIs.

  • Drink plenty of water to clear out bacteria from the urinary tract. This is especially important in the summer months, when dehydration can easily occur.
  • Practice proper bathroom cleanliness and hygiene to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra. 
  • Avoid wearing tight clothes for too long (like bathing suits or workout clothes)
  • Relieve yourself often, especially after sexual activity, to flush bacteria out before it can set in your bladder.

DOCTOR'S NOTE: Have you heard that cranberry juice prevents or treats UTIs? If you have a UTI, cranberry juice is unlikely to provide relief (plus most juices are full of sugar which can worsen symptoms). Antibiotics are the most effective UTI treatment. Cranberry supplements may help prevent future UTIs, but if you suspect an infection, ask your doctor for the best treatment.7

The bottom line

Now that you’re aware of the signs and symptoms of UTIs, take action to safeguard your health. Focus on managing any underlying medical conditions, and prioritize healthy habits like getting enough rest, eating a nutritious diet, and staying hydrated.

And if you need personalized support and guidance, visit a Florida Blue Center, where our team can help you find a primary care provider or urgent care center.

Remember: If your symptoms worsen drastically (fever, chills, vomiting), trust your instincts and head to the ER. 

 

1 Time: How UTIs Became One of the Most Common Misdiagnoses in American Medicine 
2 Time: How UTIs Became One of the Most Common Misdiagnoses in American Medicine 
3 American Medical Association: What doctors wish patients knew about UTI prevention
4 National Library of Medicine: Medicaid Managed Care in Florida and Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Preventable Emergency Department Visits
5 MedlinePlus: When to use the emergency room
6 National Library of Medicine: Urinary Tract Infection Induced Delirium in Elderly Patients: A Systematic Review
7 National Library of Medicine: Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections

Was this helpful?