Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are infections that affect the urinary system, including the urethra, kidneys, and bladder. The majority of UTIs are caused by E. coli bacteria (or other bacteria). An estimated 10 out of 25 women and 3 out of 25 men will experience UTI symptoms at some point in their lives.

In many cases, having a UTI is not life-threatening but can be painful and annoying. However, if the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can lead to a serious and potentially life-threatening infection.

So, how can you tell when your UTI is out of control and when you might need to go to the hospital? Healthline has the answers, which we’ve summarized below.

UTI Symptoms

Most UTIs originate in the lower urinary tract (urethra and bladder). If you have a UTI, you may experience symptoms such as:

1. A strong urge to urinate that persists, even if you’re not urinating frequently.
2. Cloudy urine.
3. Burning sensation while urinating.
4. Pelvic pressure and pain.
5. Abnormal discharge.
6. Lower abdominal discomfort.
7. Blood in the urine (which may appear red, pink, or cola-colored).
8. Frequent urination despite passing small amounts of urine.
9. Strong-smelling urine.

If you are experiencing UTI symptoms, please seek assistance from your doctor. In many cases, oral antibiotics can clear up the infection, and pain relievers and increased fluid intake may help speed up the recovery process.

Progression to Severe Infection

If left untreated, a UTI can spread to the upper urinary tract, leading to more severe infections. People at higher risk of a complicated or severe urinary tract infection include pregnant individuals, immunocompromised people, those with an enlarged prostate or kidney stones, and individuals who have recently used a catheter or antibiotics. However, severe UTIs can still develop even if you do not fall into these categories.

The following symptoms are indicative of a severe infection and should prompt a visit to the hospital or the emergency room:

1. Extremely bloody urine.
2. Fatigue and a general feeling of illness.
3. Nausea and vomiting.
4. Fever and chills.
5. Back and/or side pain.
6. Mental changes, such as confusion.

These symptoms indicate that the infection has reached the kidneys. Without prompt treatment and intervention, this can lead to lasting damage to the kidneys, bladder, and prostate, as well as sepsis.

If you go to the hospital, they will most likely perform various exams and tests, including urinalysis and cystoscopy.