
FAST FACTS: Urinary Tract Infection Pain

Pain due to infection in the urinary tract can be from the passage of urine. It can also be felt over the bladder or flank area. A urinary tract infection (UTI) can vary from a simple infection to a potentially life-threating one. Treatment of a UTI with limited bacteria in the urine is not recommended. Using antibiotics for a mild infection can increase the rate of adverse side effects and increase the rate of recurrent infections due to multiple drug resistant bacteria.
Normal Changes of Aging/Risks of UTI
- The ability to resist a UTI is lower if you have other conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, or autoimmune disorders
- In women, estrogen deficiency thins vaginal tissue causing more vulnerability to bacteria
- An enlarged prostrate in older males can cause retention of urine, which predisposes men to chronic infection due to entrapped bacteria
- Incontinence and overall functional decline can further weaken the ability to fight infection
- The use of indwelling urinary catheters, which may increase with age, increases the risk of UTIs, hospitalizations, and antibiotic resistance
Assessment
- Assessment by your healthcare provider should include vital signs and review of mental status and level of pain
- Presence of back pain with tenderness (one side) could indicate a kidney infection
- The healthcare provider will review your history of UTIs or catheterizations, kidney stones, or recent dehydration
- Mental status change is a MAJOR and common symptom of infection
- Healthcare provider will obtain a urine sample
Possible Intervention
- Prescription or over the counter (OTC) medications, depending upon the diagnosis
- Non-Drug Treatments include maintaining a calm environment, adequate fluid intake, and providing support as needed to maintain safety
What Else You Should Do
- Write down and share information about your pain with your healthcare provider
- Use a Pain Diary to note important information useful to the healthcare provider
- Try a non-drug treatment and document the impact on your pain in your Pain Diary
References
- WebMD. 2021. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Accessed 2.21.2022. https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/your-guide-urinary-tract-infections
- Mayo Clinic. April 23, 2021. Urinary tract infection (UTI). Accessed 2.21.2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353453
Revised January 2022

