Urinary Tract Infection (Uti)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when microorganisms infect part of the urinary system. Bladder symptoms differ from kidney infection, and urinary symptoms can also come from sexually transmitted infection, stones or inflammation without bacteria.
Furadantin
50 · 100mg
Nitrofurantoin 50mg and 100mg tablets, used for cystitis and urinary tract infection. Bacterial flavoproteins reduce it to reactive intermediates.
Key points
- Burning, frequency and urgency can suggest cystitis, but urine testing and clinical context affect whether antibiotics are needed.
- Fever, shaking chills, flank pain or vomiting can indicate kidney infection and require prompt assessment.
- Pregnancy, male sex, childhood, recurrent infection, obstruction and reduced immunity change investigation and treatment.
An antibiotic listing cannot confirm a UTI or select treatment; infection site, culture, kidney function, allergies and resistance patterns guide care.
How is a UTI assessed?
Symptoms and examination help distinguish lower from upper infection. Urinalysis or culture is particularly useful in recurrent, complicated or unclear cases. Cloudy or strong-smelling urine alone does not establish infection.
How are antibiotics selected?
Nitrofurantoin is used for selected lower UTIs but does not reach kidney tissue adequately. Broader agents such as ciprofloxacin have additional risks and should be reserved for appropriate indications. See antibiotics for class context.
When to seek urgent care
Seek same-day care for fever, chills, flank pain, vomiting, pregnancy with urinary symptoms, marked illness or inability to keep fluids down. Emergency care is needed for confusion, fainting, severe weakness or very little urine.