UTI Symptoms (Peshab mein Jalan): Causes, Antibiotics and Prevention

Reviewed by Dr Asma

A burning feeling while passing urine, the urge to go again and again, and a lower belly that feels heavy. If this sounds familiar, you may have a urinary tract infection, usually shortened to UTI. In Pakistan it is very common, especially in women, during hot summers when people drink too little water, and in older adults. Many people treat it with leftover antibiotics or ask a neighbour for advice, which is a good way to make the infection come back stronger. This guide explains the UTI symptoms, how treatment works, and how to lower your risk.

What is a UTI?

The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. A UTI happens when bacteria, most often from the gut, travel up the urethra and multiply. An infection of the bladder is called cystitis and is the most common type. If bacteria climb up to the kidneys, it becomes a more serious kidney infection.

Common UTI symptoms

• Burning or stinging when passing urine
• Needing to go often, with only small amounts coming out
• A sudden, strong urge that is hard to hold
• Cloudy, dark or strong smelling urine
• Pain or pressure in the lower belly
• Blood in the urine in some cases

In children, UTI can show up as unexplained fever, irritability, poor feeding or new bedwetting. In elderly people it may appear as sudden confusion or tiredness rather than burning, so family members should watch for it.

Signs that the infection may have reached the kidneys

See a doctor the same day if urinary symptoms come with high fever, shivering, back or side pain, nausea or vomiting. These point to a kidney infection, which can become dangerous if left untreated. Pregnant women with any urinary symptoms should also see a doctor promptly, because UTI in pregnancy needs proper treatment.

How doctors diagnose and treat it

A doctor will ask about symptoms and usually advise a simple urine test. In repeated or complicated cases a urine culture is done, which shows which germ is responsible and which antibiotic works against it. Treatment is normally a short course of an antibiotic chosen for you. The choice depends on your test, your age, whether you are pregnant, your kidney health and local resistance patterns. Please do not pick the antibiotic yourself.

Many mild infections start to feel better in a day or two, and that is exactly when people stop the medicine. Stopping early can leave some bacteria alive, and they return resistant. Take the course exactly as prescribed. Our guide on antibiotics: when they are needed and how to take them safely explains this in more detail. For prescription antibiotics, you can order through the upload prescription page and explore the Bacterial Infections category.

Pain relief and comfort

A doctor or pharmacist may suggest a simple painkiller for discomfort and urine alkalinising sachets for burning in some cases. These ease symptoms but do not kill bacteria. A hot water bottle on the lower belly can be soothing. Read our painkillers explained article before combining any pain medicines, and avoid anti inflammatory painkillers if you have kidney problems unless your doctor says it is fine.

Everyday habits that help prevent UTI

• Drink enough water through the day, especially in summer. Pale yellow urine is a good sign.
• Do not hold urine for hours. Go when you feel the need.
• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
• Pass urine after intimate relations.
• Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear and change out of wet clothes quickly.
• Avoid harsh soaps, douches and scented products in the intimate area.
• Change sanitary pads regularly. See our sanitary pads guide for tips.
• For children and elderly people who use diapers, change them often and keep the area clean and dry.

UTI in men and older adults

UTI is less common in men, so a urinary infection in a man deserves a proper check, as it may be linked to an enlarged prostate or a stone. Related products are listed under Prostate and Urinary Care. People with diabetes also get UTI more easily, so good sugar control matters. See our diabetes medicines explained article.

What to ask your doctor

• Do I need a urine culture before starting treatment?
• How many days should I take the antibiotic, and what if I miss a dose?
• Are there side effects like stomach upset or diarrhoea I should expect?
• Why do I keep getting UTIs, and do I need further tests?
• When should I come back if I do not improve?

Frequently asked questions

Can a UTI go away on its own?

Very mild cases sometimes settle, but many do not and can progress to the kidneys. It is safer to get checked.

Does drinking more water cure a UTI?

It helps flush the system and supports treatment, but it does not replace an antibiotic when one is needed.

Is cranberry juice a treatment?

It may help some people prevent repeat infections, but it is not a treatment for an active infection.

Why do I get UTI again and again?

Causes include not drinking enough water, diabetes, stones, and incomplete courses of antibiotics. Speak to your doctor about tests.

Can I take an old antibiotic I have at home?

No. It may be the wrong medicine, and it adds to antibiotic resistance.

Important note

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist for diagnosis and treatment, especially for children, pregnant women, older adults and people with diabetes or kidney disease.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any treatment.