A urinary tract infection (UTI) typically feels like:
- A burning or stinging sensation when urinating
- A frequent and urgent need to urinate, often passing only small amounts of urine
- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
- Cloudy, dark, strong-smelling, or sometimes bloody urine
- A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, where you still feel the need to urinate after going
- Possible lower back or side pain if the infection has reached the kidneys
- Additional symptoms can include fever, chills, nausea, and fatigue if the infection is more severe
In children and older adults, symptoms may also include irritability, confusion, or worsening incontinence