Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue. They can bring about a range of uncomfortable symptoms, such as frequent urination and abdominal pain. But can a UTI cause nausea? This question often arises among individuals experiencing symptoms beyond the typical urinary discomfort. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between UTIs and nausea, as well as outline when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.
For same-day UTI diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana. We provide convenient, efficient, and quality care to all patients in the Aurora, CO area– both in-person and via telemedicine. Simply walk-in today or plan your visit in advance by pre-registering below.
What Are Urinary Tract Infections?
To start, it’s important to understand what a UTI is and how it can develop. A UTI occurs when bacteria, typically from the digestive tract, enter the urinary tract and multiply, leading to infection. The most common type of a UTI affects the lower urinary tract, including the bladder. However, UTIs can also involve the upper urinary tract, such as the kidneys, which can cause more severe symptoms.
The most common signs of a UTI include:
- Urge to urinate frequently, often in small amounts
- Burning with urination
- Cloudy urine
- Strong unpleasant smell of urine
- Pelvic pain
The Connection Between a UTI and Nausea
While nausea is not typically considered a primary symptom of a urinary tract infection, it can occur in some cases. Nausea can occasionally accompany other urinary symptoms, especially if the infection has spread to the kidneys or if you’re experiencing significant pain or discomfort from the infection. When a UTI progresses to affect the kidneys, it can lead to more systemic symptoms, which includes nausea and vomiting. This is because the kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products from the blood, and when they become infected it can disrupt their function, leading to nausea.
Additionally, severe pain or discomfort associated with a UTI, particularly if it causes inflammation in the urinary tract or spreads to the kidneys, can trigger nausea as a secondary response. The body’s natural reaction to a UTI’s pain and discomfort can include feelings of nausea and queasiness. For some people, nausea could be the systematic response as the body works to fight off the infection.
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you’re experiencing nausea along with other urinary symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests, such as a urine culture or urinalysis, to confirm the presence of a UTI and assess its severity. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve antibiotics to clear the infection, as well as medications to manage nausea or other related symptoms. In addition to medical treatment, there are steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms and support your UTI recovery at home. This includes staying hydrated, resting, avoiding irritants, and practicing good hygiene habits to prevent recurrent or future UTIs.
Get Same-Day UTI Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana
While nausea is not a primary symptom of a UTI, it can occasionally accompany other urinary symptoms, especially if the infection has spread. If you’re experiencing nausea along with other UTI symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention. With prompt diagnosis and care, most UTIs can be effectively managed. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana for same-day urinary tract infection treatment. Our team of certified medical professionals is available seven days a week to provide exceptional urgent care– both in-person and through telemedicine. We accept most health insurance carriers and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about UTI treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 343-6000.
