A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys and urethra. UTIs are common, particularly in women. Phoenix gynecology experts estimate that one in two women will experience a UTI at some point in their lives.
While a UTI is not generally considered a serious medical condition, it can cause significant discomfort and may lead to more serious complications if left untreated. A UTI can also interfere with your ability to get pregnant and may increase your risk of developing kidney damage. Below are eight serious complications that you can get from untreated UTI:
1. Urinary Tract Infection Can Lead to a Kidney Infection
If a UTI is not treated, it can progress to a kidney infection. A kidney infection is a serious condition that can cause permanent damage to the kidneys and even lead to renal failure. With renal failure, the kidneys can no longer function properly and may need to be removed.
2. Urinary Tract Infection Can Cause a Bloodstream Infection
A UTI can also cause a bloodstream infection, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. A bloodstream infection can occur when bacteria from the urinary tract enter the bloodstream. Some of the symptoms to know include fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting.
3. Urinary Tract Infection Can Lead to Preterm Labor
UTIs are also associated with an increased risk of preterm labor. Preterm labor is labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Preterm labor can lead to serious health problems for the baby, including death.
4. Urinary Tract Infection Can Cause Miscarriage
UTIs are also associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks gestation. A miscarriage can be a traumatic experience and lead to serious health complications.
5. Urinary Tract Infection Can Cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs that can occur when bacteria from a UTI spread to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. PID can cause infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain.
6. Urinary Tract Infection Can Cause a Urinary Tract Obstruction
A UTI can also cause a urinary tract obstruction. A urinary tract obstruction is a blockage in urine flow from the bladder to the urethra. A urinary tract obstruction can be a serious condition and may require surgery to correct.
7. Urinary Tract Infection Can Cause Sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition when an infection spreads through the bloodstream. Sepsis means that the body fights a severe infection and is at risk for organ failure. Sepsis can lead to death if not treated immediately.
8. Urinary Tract Infection Can Cause Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidney. Kidney stones can cause pain, obstruction, and infection. Kidney stones are more common in people with UTIs.
If you experience any of the symptoms of a UTI, it is important to see your doctor at Desert Star Family Planning right away. Untreated UTIs can lead to serious complications. Treatment for a UTI typically involves antibiotics and may also include pain medication.
