A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections, particularly among women, though it can affect individuals of any gender and age. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, typically causing inflammation in the bladder, urethra, or, if left untreated, even the kidneys.

Although UTIs are treatable with antibiotics, delaying care can lead to complications like kidney infections or recurrent UTIs. Recognizing the early warning signs and seeking professional evaluation are key to a quick recovery.

At AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts, our medical providers offer fast, walk-in diagnosis and treatment for UTIs; no appointment is necessary. In this guide, we'll explore the five most common symptoms of a UTI, risk factors, and when it's time to seek medical help.

1. A Persistent Urge to Urinate

One of the earliest and most recognizable symptoms of a UTI is a strong, persistent urge to urinate, even if very little urine is released. This feeling may return minutes after you've already used the restroom.
This symptom occurs due to bladder inflammation (known as cystitis), which triggers the sensation of needing to urinate frequently despite the bladder not being full.

What to Watch For:

• Urgent trips to the bathroom, especially at night
• Difficulty fully emptying the bladder
• Increased frequency without increased fluid intake

2. A Burning Sensation While Urinating

Another hallmark of a UTI is a burning or stinging sensation during urination. This symptom is often described as sharp or intense and may worsen as the infection progresses.
This occurs when bacteria irritate the urethra, leading to inflammation and discomfort during the passage of urine.

Possible Indicators:

• Sharp pain at the start or end of urination
• Warm, irritating sensation throughout the process
• Increased sensitivity around the urethral opening

Burning during urination is often mistaken for dehydration or irritation, but it should be evaluated if it persists for more than a day.

3. Cloudy, Dark, or Strong-Smelling Urine

Changes in urine color, smell, or consistency may also indicate a urinary tract infection. Healthy urine is usually light yellow and mild in odor. However, cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine can point to the presence of white blood cells, bacteria, or even blood.

Common Visual and Sensory Clues:

• Urine appears milky, cloudy, or unusually dark
• Strong, pungent odor (sometimes described as ammonia-like)
• Pink or reddish tint, indicating possible blood in the urine

While some changes in urine can result from diet or dehydration, persistent discoloration or odor should be evaluated, particularly when combined with other UTI symptoms.

4. Pelvic or Lower Abdominal Pain

Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen, bladder region, or lower back can occur as the infection spreads beyond the urethra. This discomfort may feel like cramps, dull aches, or constant pressure and is especially common in bladder infections.
In more advanced cases, if the infection spreads to the kidneys, back or side pain (in the flank area) may be present and could be accompanied by fever.

Signs to Monitor:

• Pain or discomfort just above the pubic bone
• Cramping during or after urination
• Persistent aches in the pelvic region

If this symptom is paired with fever, nausea, or chills, it could indicate a more serious upper urinary tract infection requiring immediate care.

5. Fever, Chills, or Fatigue

While not every UTI causes a fever, the presence of fever, chills, body aches, or fatigue may indicate that the infection has progressed beyond the bladder and into the kidneys (pyelonephritis), a more serious medical condition.
Fatigue may also result from the body’s immune response and the disruption of standard sleep patterns due to frequent nighttime urination.

Red Flags:

• Fever over 100.4°F
• Chills or shivering
• Nausea, vomiting, or feeling weak
• Lower back or side pain with fever

These symptoms should never be ignored, especially if you suspect a UTI. Seek immediate medical care if you experience any combination of the above.

Who Is Most at Risk for a UTI?

While UTIs can affect anyone, specific individuals are at higher risk due to anatomy, age, or underlying conditions.

Higher-Risk Populations:

• Women: Due to a shorter urethra, which allows easier bacterial entry
• Sexually active individuals
• Postmenopausal women with decreased estrogen levels
• Pregnant women
• People with diabetes
• Individuals with urinary catheters
• Men with enlarged prostates
• Anyone with a suppressed immune system

Recurrent UTIs may also be more common in individuals who have a history of bladder infections or anatomical abnormalities of the urinary tract.

When to Visit AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts

Although some people may try to wait out a UTI or self-treat with fluids and cranberry juice, the safest and most effective approach is to seek medical evaluation and antibiotic treatment.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts for UTI care if you experience:

• Painful urination for more than 24–48 hours
• Blood in your urine
• Fever, chills, or back pain
• Frequent UTIs or persistent symptoms
• Pregnancy combined with UTI symptoms
• No improvement after home remedies

Our clinics provide on-site urinalysis, urine culture, and same-day prescriptions so you can start treatment immediately. We’re open 7 days a week and offer extended evening hours. No appointment is necessary. Find a location near you at www.afcurgentcare.com/massachusetts.

How UTIs Are Diagnosed and Treated

At AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts, diagnosing and treating a UTI is quick and straightforward.

Step 1: Urine Sample

A clean-catch urine sample is collected and analyzed for the presence of:

• White blood cells (indicating infection)
• Red blood cells
• Nitrates (a byproduct of bacteria)

Sometimes, a urine culture may be sent to the lab to identify the exact bacteria and determine the most effective antibiotic.

Step 2: Treatment Plan

Based on the diagnosis, your provider may prescribe:

• Antibiotics (typically 3 to 7 days for simple UTIs)
• Pain relief medications for burning and urgency
• Hydration strategies to flush bacteria from the urinary tract

Recurrent or complicated cases may require more prolonged treatment or follow-up testing.

Tips for Preventing UTIs

Preventing a urinary tract infection is often easier than treating one. Consider adopting the following habits to reduce your risk:

• Drink plenty of water daily to flush the urinary system
• Urinate after sexual activity
• Wipe front to back after using the restroom
• Avoid douching or using harsh feminine hygiene products
• Avoid holding in urine for extended periods
• Consider cranberry supplements, but talk to your doctor before use

These steps can significantly reduce your chances of developing a UTI, especially if you’re prone to recurrent infections.

UTIs are uncomfortable and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications. Knowing the early symptoms, such as burning during urination, frequent urges, cloudy urine, pelvic pain, or fever, can help you take timely action.

At AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts, we provide fast, walk-in diagnosis and treatment so you can get back to feeling better without delay. Whether it’s your first UTI or a recurring issue, our caring team is here to help. Find your nearest urgent care center and learn more at www.afcurgentcare.com/massachusetts.