Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as toilet infection, bladder infection.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria get into the bladder or urethra, causing burning urination and frequent urges. It is much more common in women. Note that the popular term "toilet infection" often mixes up UTIs with vaginal infections — a urine test sorts out which one it is.
Symptoms
Burning or pain when urinating
Needing to urinate often, passing small amounts
Urgent need to urinate
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Lower abdominal discomfort
Blood in urine (sometimes)
Causes & risk factors
Bacteria from the bowel entering the urethra
Holding urine for long periods or low fluid intake
Sexual activity
Diabetes, pregnancy or an enlarged prostate
Treatment & self-care
A confirmed UTI is treated with a short course of antibiotics chosen by a doctor, ideally guided by a urine test. Drink plenty of water and empty the bladder fully and regularly. Repeated infections deserve investigation rather than repeated self-medication.
See a doctor urgently if
Fever, chills or pain in the back or side (possible kidney infection)
Blood in the urine
Symptoms in pregnancy, in a man or in a child
Symptoms not improving after two days of treatment
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
Early signs often include burning or pain when urinating, needing to urinate often, passing small amounts, urgent need to urinate. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) be treated?
A confirmed UTI is treated with a short course of antibiotics chosen by a doctor, ideally guided by a urine test. Drink plenty of water and empty the bladder fully and regularly. Repeated infections deserve investigation rather than repeated self-medication.
When should I see a doctor about Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: fever, chills or pain in the back or side (possible kidney infection); blood in the urine; symptoms in pregnancy, in a man or in a child; symptoms not improving after two days of treatment.