Having Problems With Urination? Here’s How To Know You Have UTI or Other Conditions

December 28, 2022

You may have a urinary tract infection if you have pain or discomfort when peeing. However, not every UTI is the same. Your UTI type might damage the different components of your urinary system.

The kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra make up the urinary tract (the peeing tube). A lower tract infection – the bladder or urethra, is far less dangerous than damaging the upper portion of the kidneys.

Similar symptoms to having a UTI can also be caused by other illnesses, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Knowing what UTI feels like and when it might become serious is crucial because these illnesses have a particular remedy.

Are signs of UTI always indicating you have a urinary infection?

No. Women who experience UTI indications but whose results confirm no infection may have the following complications:

  • Pelvic inflammatory
  • Interstitial cystitis
  • Renal stones
  • Food allergies
  • Vaginitis
  • Vulva irritation
  • Sexually transmitted diseases such as genital infections, syphilis, or chlamydia

It’s also important to remember that urinary abnormalities resembling urinary tract infections exist. It includes red or pink urine, urinating more than normal, and uncomfortable or burning incontinence – caused by prostate cancer, bladder stones, and an enlarged prostate in males.

What other diseases resemble a UTI?

Even though UTIs are relatively prevalent and their symptoms are typically obvious, other illnesses can sometimes induce symptoms similar to those of a UTI.

These are the following illnesses that can be mistaken for UTIs.

Sexually transmissible diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases are brought on by gonorrhea, chlamydia, and mycoplasma. They occasionally result in urethral discharge and can make urinating unpleasant. These infections must be treated with specific medications.

Vaginitis

Vaginal inflammation can result in discharge, blistering, and irritation. Although the urinary tract is not affected, the symptoms can resemble the discomfort of a UTI.

Vaginal infections, including trichomoniasis and fungus, are common triggers of vaginitis. But it can also be caused by skin disorders like contact dermatitis. Getting the correct diagnosis for your symptoms is crucial because each has a different course of treatment.

Urinary Incontinence

The urge to urinate excessively or unexpectedly is a symptom of urinary incontinence. When the bladder muscles are not functioning regularly, this is the main cause of an overactive bladder. It might occur with aging or with certain illnesses, such as diabetes.

Pregnancy

Lower urinary tract concerns, such as increased nighttime urine production, issues with incontinence, and unfinished urination, can also be brought on by pregnancy. During pregnancy, UTIs are more likely to arise.

Prostatitis

Men with prostate inflammation (prostatitis) may experience pain while urinating, pelvic pain, and increased urine frequency. There is headache, tremors, nausea, and vomiting in serious cases.

Kidney stones

Both sexes are susceptible to kidney stones. Any section of the urinary system may be affected by deposits made of various minerals and salts. Kidney stones can cause side or abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine.

Diabetes

Frequent urination with significant quantities in the urine stream is one of the early signs of untreated diabetes. People frequently experience extreme thirst.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis, or appendix inflammation, is a common health problem like UTIs. There is lower right abdominal pain, sickness, vomiting, and fever symptoms. These symptoms are typically unrelated to other urinary symptoms and can develop quickly.

Cancer

While less often, some cancers might exhibit symptoms resembling UTIs. Urine can contain blood from bladder cancer, which may not have other symptoms. Blood in the urine and side soreness can also be signs of kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma).