A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection of the urinary system, which includes the ureters, urethra, bladder and kidneys. Both men and women can develop a UTI, but women are more likely to experience them due to their structural anatomy. Symptoms of a UTI can include fever, pain or burning with urination, back pain, urinary frequency and urgency, pelvic pain and cloudy or foul smelling urine. Treatment usually includes antibiotic therapy. There are other illnesses that may have some of the same symptoms of a UTI. Patients with any of the symptoms associated with a UTI should seek prompt medical care.
Vaginitis
Women who develop vaginitis may experience symptoms similar to those of a UTI. Vaginitis is a bacterial infection of the vaginal canal. Women with vaginitis may develop pain and burning with urination, blood in the urine and pelvic pain. Vaginitis can be diagnosed by a gynecologist and treated with an antibiotic pill or topical gel.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Certain sexually transmitted infections may cause symptoms that mimic those of a UTI. Such infections include chlamydia, gonorrhea and genital herpes, says MayoClinic.com. These infections are spread through sexual contact with an infected partner. Both men and women may become infected with these illnesses. Symptoms can include pain and burning with urination and pelvic pain. Chlamydia and gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics, but they can cause long term issues with fertility if not treated early. Genital herpes is caused by a virus and is not curable. Medications help prevent and shorten outbreaks.
Prostatitis
Men who have prostatitis may experience urinary symptoms, explains MedlinePlus from the National Institutes of Health. Prostatitis is an infection and inflammation of the prostate gland. Symptoms can include fever, pain and burning with urination, urinary frequency, urgency and pelvic pain. Treatment usually includes antibiotic therapy.
Kidney Stones
Some patients who have kidney stones may have symptoms similar to those of a UTI. Back pain, fever, pelvic pain, and urinary frequency and pain can occur. Kidney stones can be diagnosed by imaging and diagnostic testing. Some kidney stones may pass independently while severe, persistent stones may require surgical intervention.
