What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria and affect the bladder or urethra. Knowing the symptoms and seeking care early can help prevent a more serious kidney infection.

For people living with kidney disease, liver disease, cirrhosis, diabetes, or other ongoing health conditions, prompt attention to possible infection is especially important. The Liver & Kidney Hope Foundation shares education and support, but does not provide medical care. Please talk with a healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment options.

Frequently asked questions about UTIs

Get clear, practical answers about urinary tract infections, including symptoms, treatment, prevention, and when to get urgent care. This information is for education only and is not a substitute for advice from your healthcare provider.

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection, or UTI, happens when germs—most often bacteria—enter and grow in the urinary tract. UTIs may involve the urethra or bladder, and in some cases can travel upward to the kidneys. A kidney infection is more serious and needs prompt medical attention.

What are common UTI symptoms?

Common symptoms include burning or pain when urinating, needing to urinate often or urgently, lower-belly pressure or pain, and urine that looks cloudy, dark, bloody, or has a strong smell. Symptoms vary, and some people—especially older adults—may have less typical signs.

When could a UTI be a kidney infection?

Fever, chills, pain in the back or side, nausea, or vomiting can be signs that an infection may have reached the kidneys. New confusion can also be an important warning sign, particularly for older adults and people with liver disease. Seek prompt medical care for these symptoms.

Will a UTI go away on its own?

Do not assume a UTI is minor or will resolve without care. While some mild infections may clear, many UTIs need prescription antibiotics. Without treatment, an infection can spread to the kidneys and cause serious illness. Contact a healthcare provider if you think you may have a UTI.

How is a UTI diagnosed and treated?

A healthcare provider may ask about your symptoms and test a urine sample for signs of infection. Many bacterial UTIs are treated with antibiotics. Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and contact your provider if symptoms do not improve, return, or get worse.

Can cranberry juice cure a UTI?

No. Cranberry juice and other cranberry products do not cure an active UTI and should not replace medical treatment. They may help with prevention for some people, but the right approach depends on your health history. Ask your healthcare provider what is appropriate for you.

What can I do while I wait to see a healthcare provider?

Drink water unless your provider has told you to limit fluids. Ask a pharmacist or healthcare provider before taking pain relievers or over-the-counter urinary pain medicines, especially if you have kidney or liver disease. These steps may provide comfort but do not treat the infection.

Why do UTIs matter for liver and kidney health?

An untreated UTI can spread to the kidneys and contribute to kidney damage or acute kidney injury. UTIs are also common in people with cirrhosis; infection can trigger confusion from hepatic encephalopathy, kidney injury, or hepatorenal syndrome. Early recognition and treatment help protect both organs.

Take UTI symptoms seriously

If you have burning with urination, urgent or frequent urination, lower-belly pain, or changes in your urine, contact a healthcare provider. Get prompt care for fever, chills, back or side pain, nausea, vomiting, or new confusion. The Liver & Kidney Hope Foundation is not a medical provider; this free educational guide can help you learn more about prevention after you have spoken with your care team.