what is uti infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs involve the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder and the urethra. UTIs are caused by bacteria, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being the most common culprit. Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men, in part because the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Symptoms of a UTI can include pain or burning while urinating, frequent urination, feeling the need to urinate despite having an empty bladder, bloody urine, and pressure or cramping in the groin or lower abdomen. If left untreated, a UTI can spread to other areas of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, and cause more serious complications. Treatment for UTIs typically involves antibiotics.