A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. While UTIs primarily cause discomfort in the urinary tract, nausea can be a symptom. Though not a primary or common symptom, its presence often indicates a more significant infection.
The Link Between UTIs and Nausea
Nausea can be a symptom of a urinary tract infection. While classic UTI indicators involve urinary discomfort, systemic symptoms like nausea can develop, especially if the infection is more severe or has spread beyond the bladder. Nausea is an atypical but recognized symptom that often suggests the infection has progressed or is affecting the body more broadly.
Understanding the Body’s Response
The body’s immune response to an infection, including a UTI, involves the release of various chemicals. Inflammatory chemicals, such as cytokines, are part of this response and can affect the digestive system or stimulate the brain’s vomit center, leading to feelings of nausea. If a UTI ascends from the bladder to infect the kidneys, a condition known as pyelonephritis, systemic symptoms like nausea become more common. A kidney infection can cause significant pain, which may trigger vagal nerve responses that contribute to nausea and vomiting. Pyelonephritis often presents with additional symptoms, including fever, chills, and back pain, alongside nausea.
Beyond Nausea: Other UTI Indicators
Urinary tract infections present with a range of symptoms. Common indicators of a lower UTI, affecting the bladder or urethra, include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, and passing frequent, small amounts of urine. The urine may appear cloudy, have a strong odor, or contain visible blood.
If the infection has spread to the kidneys, symptoms differ, indicating a more serious condition. A kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, may cause fever, chills, and pain in the back or side, often just under the ribs. Nausea and vomiting are also more frequently associated with kidney infections.
Seeking Care and Prevention
If you experience nausea along with other UTI symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider can diagnose a UTI through a urine test, such as a urinalysis and urine culture, to identify the specific bacteria. Treatment for most UTIs involves antibiotics; complete the full prescription even if symptoms improve.
To help prevent UTIs, drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to dilute urine and flush bacteria. Urinate frequently and empty the bladder completely to prevent bacterial growth. Practice proper hygiene, wiping from front to back after using the toilet, to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra. Urinating soon after sexual activity also helps flush out any bacteria.