An infection may occur anywhere along the urinary tract, including the kidneys and the bladder. Usually, bacteria enter the urinary tract either through the urethra -- which is the tube that connects the bladder to the outside of the body -- or from the blood. The longer urine remains in the bladder, the higher the risk of developing an infection. Because of the shorter urethra and proximity to the anus in females, they are at a greater risk of developing a urinary tract infection, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include a burning or stinging pain during urination and pressure in the pelvis. Individuals with a kidney infection may also experience pain in the lower back or on the side. Some individuals may experience changes in their urine such as a cloudy or bloody appearance and a foul smell. A kidney infection may cause a high fever with chills.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a bladder or kidney infection, a physician completes a physical exam and orders a urine analysis to view the urine under the microscope or to dip a test strip into the urine. The tests help reveal bacteria, pus and blood in the urine, according to MayoClinic.com.
Treatment
Since bacteria most often cause the infection in the urinary tract, antibiotics help clear up the infection. The symptoms of the infection may resolve after a few days of antibiotic therapy, but it is important to complete the seven- to 10-day course of medication. Severe infections, especially those involving the kidney, may require a person to receive antibiotics intravenously instead of by mouth.
Complications
Bladder infections may spread and cause a more severe kidney infection. Recurrent infections in the bladder may also cause irritation to the lining of the bladder and cause constant pain, even with no infection present. Complications of a kidney infection include a possibility of permanent damage to the kidney and blood poisoning due to a circulation of the bacteria through the bloodstream.
Prevention
Some measures can help prevent bladder and kidney infections. For females, wiping from the front to the back may help prevent bacteria from moving from the anus to the urethra. Urinating after sexual intercourse may help push out any bacteria. Individuals who suffer from frequent urinary tract infections may benefit from taking a daily antibiotic, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Drinking large amounts of water and cranberry juice may help prevent urinary tract infections.
