A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the bladder. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter through the opening to the bladder, or urethra, and travel upward, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms include a strong or frequent urge to urinate, burning and pain during urination, cloudy and foul-smelling urine, and possible fever. A urinary tract infection requires medical treatment, and an untreated UTI can cause serious complications.
Kidney Infection
According to Merck Online Medical Library, an untreated UTI can allow bacteria to continue traveling up the urinary tract to the kidneys resulting in pyelonephritis, which can permanently damage the kidneys if not treated promptly. Symptoms include lower back pain on either side, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. Treatment includes antibiotics and possible hospitalization for serious cases.
Sepsis
The blood is normally sterile and free of bacteria and other disease-causing oraganisims. However, sepsis is a very serious illness caused by bacterial invasion of the bloodstream, explains the National Institutes of Health website, Medline Plus. A urinary tract infection is a potential cause of of the condition. Sepsis causes a drop in blood pressure that results in shock. Symptoms include chills, confusion or delirium, fever, rapid breathing and heart rate, reduced amount of urine, and a skin rash. Intravenous antibiotics and intensive care are needed.
Complications During Pregnancy
According to Monica Lee, R.Ph., and colleagues in a June 2008 article in the College of Family Physicians of Canada, urinary tract infections are common complications of pregnancy and are caused by hormonal and anatomical changes. Left untreated, serious complications including kidney infection, premature delivery, low birth weight and sometimes stillbirth can result. Prompt treatment is required.
Complications in Children
UTIs can cause serious and permanent damage to a child's urinary system, including the kidneys, according to the March 2000 Journal of the American Medical Association Patient Page. Symptoms are similar to those in adults but may not be as easy to observe. A child may be irritable and have a loss of appetite. It is important for the child to receive medical treatment as soon as possible.
