MedCare Contacts
- Call: 706-322-2233
- Fax: 706-324-5233
MedCare Family Practice
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Office Hours
Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM -
Address
5612 Whitesville Road, STE A
Columbus, GA 31904-9031
MedCare Urgent Care
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Office Hours
Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM -
Address
5612 Whitesville Road, STE B
Columbus, GA 31904-9031 -
Note
The last patient will be signed in at 4:45 PM
Family Practice and Urgent Care
Closed Monday – Friday, 12 – 1 PM, and on holidays.
Is It a UTI? A Clear Guide to Symptoms and Next Steps
A urinary tract infection often arrives with a very specific feeling. There can be burning when you pee, a sudden need to go more often, or a heavy pressure low in your belly. These infections are common and usually affect the bladder. Less often, the infection reaches the kidneys, which can cause fever, back or side pain, and feeling unwell.
This guide keeps things simple. You will learn the most common signs of a UTI, how to tell when it might be something else, and which symptoms mean you should seek medical care sooner. You will also see how UTIs are usually tested and treated, along with everyday habits that may lower the chance of another infection.
What Is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection is an infection anywhere in the urinary system. Most infections involve the lower tract, which is the bladder and the urethra. If a bladder infection is not treated, it can spread to the kidneys and become more serious.
Common Symptoms
Typical bladder infection symptoms include burning or pain when you urinate, the urge to go often, feeling you still need to go right after you went, pressure or discomfort in the belly, and sometimes cloudy or bloody urine. Fever, back or side pain, nausea, or vomiting are more concerning and can signal a kidney infection.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek care quickly if you have a fever, chills, back or side pain, nausea, or vomiting since these can be signs of a kidney infection. Parents should call a pediatrician right away for any baby three months or younger with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F or 38°C or higher.
Why UTIs Happen
UTIs are more common in women because the urethra is shorter and closer to the rectum. Risk rises with a prior UTI, recent sexual activity, changes in vaginal bacteria from menopause or spermicide use, pregnancy, and age.
In men, structural problems like an enlarged prostate can interfere with bladder emptying and raise the risk.
How a UTI Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis is based on your symptoms, a physical exam when needed, and urine testing. A urinalysis can suggest infection. Sometimes a urine culture is ordered to identify the germ and guide antibiotics.
Treatment Basics
Most bladder infections are treated with antibiotics chosen by a clinician. Drink fluids to stay hydrated. Use antibiotics only when needed and take them exactly as directed. This helps symptoms improve and supports antibiotic stewardship.
What about pain relief like phenazopyridine?
Phenazopyridine can ease urinary burning and discomfort, but it is not an antibiotic and does not cure the infection. Most labels advise using it only for up to two days while antibiotics start working, unless a clinician advises otherwise. It commonly turns urine orange.
What if you have no symptoms, but bacteria show up in your urine?
This is called asymptomatic bacteriuria. In most people, it should not be treated. The main exceptions are during pregnancy and before certain invasive urologic procedures. Treating when you do not have symptoms does not help and can cause harm.
Everyday Prevention You Can Start Today
Simple habits may lower your risk. Stay well hydrated. Choose showers instead of long baths. Avoid douching and scented sprays or powders in the genital area. Teach children to wipe from front to back during potty training.
Take Care of Your Health with Confidence
UTIs are common and usually easy to treat, but understanding your symptoms and knowing when to get checked can make a big difference. Small, steady habits like drinking plenty of water, practicing good hygiene, and paying attention to changes in your body help protect your health and peace of mind.
At MedCare, we believe that clear information helps you make the right choices for your body. Whether you are focused on daily wellness or need same-day care, we are here to help you feel comfortable, informed, and supported every step of the way.
Your health matters, and so do you.
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