A urinary tract infection is an infection that occurs in the urinary system. MayoClinic.com explains that most urinary tract infections are caused by a bacteria, begin in the urethra and travel up the urinary tract into the bladder. From the bladder, infection can spread into the ureters, the tubes that connect the bladder to the kidneys. Symptoms of a urinary tract infection may include a burning sensation upon urination, a strong urge to urinate and frequent urination. Urine may be cloudy and have a strong odor.
Kidney Infections
If left untreated, a urinary tract infection can lead to a more serious infection in one or both kidneys. According to MayoClinic.com, bacteria can work its way up the urinary tract and into the kidneys. In some cases, damage to the kidneys by an infection may be permanent. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds that infections that reach the kidneys may also spread directly into the bloodstream, causing a serious blood infection known as sepsis. Symptoms of a kidney infection may include back or side pain, fever, chills and vomiting.
Kidney Scarring
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that, in addition to infection, untreated or recurrent urinary tract infections may lead to scarring in one or both kidneys. Scarring of the kidneys occurs if a urinary tract infection spreads into the kidneys, damaging delicate tissues. Kidney scarring can lead to renal hypertension, a condition in which high blood pressure is caused by a narrowing of the vessels that carry blood to the kidneys. According to MayoClinic.com, advanced renal hypertension can lead to kidney failure.
Complications During Pregnancy
Urinary tract infections in pregnant women can cause complications for women and their babies. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that pregnant women are more likely to have urinary tract infections that spread to the kidneys. MayoClinic.com adds that pregnant women who have urinary tract infections may have an increased risk of delivering low birth weight or premature babies. To reduce this risk, many obstetricians give pregnant women routine urine tests to check for bacteria.
