Urinary Tract Infection (Uti)
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria, usually from the gut, colonise the urethra or bladder. UTIs are among the most common bacterial infections worldwide and are particularly frequent in women, though men and children are also affected. In humid tropical climates, dehydration and heat can compound the risk.
Furadantin
50 · 100mg
Nitrofurantoin 50mg and 100mg tablets, used for cystitis and urinary tract infection. Bacterial flavoproteins reduce it to reactive intermediates.
Key points
- Gut bacteria travelling into the urethra or bladder are behind most infections, with women affected more often than men or children.
- Burning during urination, frequent urgent trips to the toilet, and cloudy, strong-smelling urine are the tell-tale signs.
- A short course of an antibiotic such as nitrofurantoin or ciprofloxacin usually clears an uncomplicated case.
- Fever, chills, or pain low in the back can signal the infection has reached the kidneys and needs prompt review.
Recognising the symptoms
The hallmark signs are a burning sensation when passing urine, frequent and urgent trips to the toilet, and urine that looks cloudy or smells unusually strong. A dull ache or pressure low in the abdomen is common. Some people notice only one or two of these; others experience all of them at once.
How UTIs are treated
Most uncomplicated UTIs clear with a short course of antibiotics. Nitrofurantoin is widely used for bladder infections and works directly in the urinary tract. Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum option often used when nitrofurantoin is unsuitable. Cefuroxime and roxithromycin may be chosen depending on the bacteria involved and local resistance patterns. Drinking generous amounts of water throughout treatment helps flush bacteria from the bladder and speeds recovery.
When to seek urgent attention
See a doctor the same day if you develop fever, shaking chills, or pain in the back or sides below the ribs. These point to a possible kidney infection (pyelonephritis), which needs a longer and often different antibiotic course. Blood in the urine, pregnancy, and UTIs in young children or older men also warrant prompt medical review rather than self-treatment.
Reducing the chance of another infection
Staying well-hydrated is the single most useful habit. Other practical steps: urinate soon after sex, wipe front to back, avoid holding on for long when the urge comes, and choose breathable underwear. If UTIs keep recurring despite these measures, a doctor can investigate whether an anatomical or hormonal factor is involved.