Urinary tract infections
A urinary tract infection, or UTI, affects part of the system that makes and carries urine. People of different ages and sexes can develop one. Symptoms and urine testing can help a clinician assess a suspected infection.
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Burning, frequent urges, lower abdominal pressure, and changes in urine can occur with a UTI. Fever, feeling shaky, or pain in the back or side add important information. People of any sex can develop a UTI, so symptoms deserve attention without assumptions. [1]
A urinalysis checks for findings such as blood and white blood cells. A culture looks for bacteria and can inform treatment decisions. These tests answer different questions, and culture results may take several days rather than appearing immediately during a visit. [2]
ALSO WORTH KNOWING [1]
Urinary symptoms can have other causes; this page cannot confirm a UTI or determine suitable treatment. [1]
THE CLINICAL CONVERSATION
An assessment combines history, an examination, and appropriate laboratory tests. Repeat infections sometimes lead to imaging or other investigations to look for an underlying issue. A virtual conversation cannot collect a urine sample or perform those examinations, so additional steps may be needed. [2]
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A FEW STRAIGHT ANSWERS
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Yes. UTIs can affect people of any sex or age. Medical history and the symptom pattern help guide the assessment rather than sex alone. [1]
Recurring bladder infections can lead a clinician to consider imaging or examination of the urinary tract. The aim is to investigate possible reasons for the repeated pattern. [2]
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References checked November 7, 2026. This content has not been clinically reviewed for Northguard.
