A urinary tract infection, also called "cystitis", is an infection that can affect any part of the urinary system: the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra.
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What is a UTI?
Different types of urinary tract infections
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Infectious cystitis
The most common form of urinary tract infection, cystitis affects almost exclusively women. It is an inflammation of the bladder often caused by the proliferation of bacteria.
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Infectious urethritis
The infection affects only the urethra (the tube that connects the bladder to the urinary meatus). Often related to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. In men, urethritis can be accompanied by prostatitis.
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Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is a more serious condition usually resulting from a bacterial infection. It refers to the inflammation of the urine-collecting cavity of the kidney and the kidney itself.
Signs & Symptoms
Pain or burning when urinating.
Abnormally high frequency of urination.
A persistent feeling of needing to urinate.
Cloudy urine with an unpleasant odor.
A feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen.
Sometimes blood in the urine.
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When should you consult?
If the infection is not treated, the bacteria continue to multiply and invade the urinary tract. This can lead to a more serious kidney problem, such as pyelonephritis.
You should seek help if you have symptoms that look like a UTI.
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