A urinary tract infection (UTI) develops when bacteria infect any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. These infections are a common health concern, affecting millions of individuals annually. It is possible for a UTI to cause stomach upset, a symptom that many people might not immediately associate with this type of infection.
How Urinary Tract Infections Can Affect Your Digestive System
Urinary tract infections can lead to digestive upset through several interconnected mechanisms within the body. When bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli) from the digestive tract, enter and multiply in the urinary system, they trigger an inflammatory response. This inflammation can extend to surrounding tissues in the pelvic region, including parts of the gastrointestinal tract, potentially disrupting normal digestive function.
The body’s immune response to the infection involves the release of cytokines, signaling molecules that can influence various bodily systems. These cytokines can stimulate the brain’s chemoreceptor trigger zone, known to induce nausea and vomiting. Endotoxins released by bacteria can also enter the bloodstream, causing a systemic inflammatory response that contributes to these generalized symptoms.
Referred pain is another way a UTI can cause abdominal discomfort. Pain signals from the irritated bladder or urinary tract can be perceived in the lower abdomen due to shared nerve pathways. This can manifest as a dull ache, pressure, or cramping sensation in the lower belly, sometimes intensifying when the bladder is full or during urination. While bloating and gas are more commonly associated with digestive issues, the inflammation from a UTI or the body’s general inflammatory response can contribute to these symptoms as well.
Other Common Signs of a Urinary Tract Infection
Beyond stomach upset, a urinary tract infection presents with common symptoms primarily affecting the urinary system. These include a persistent and strong urge to urinate, even when the bladder contains little urine, often accompanied by frequent urination.
Pain or a burning sensation during urination (dysuria) is another hallmark symptom. Urine may appear cloudy, dark, or have a strong, unpleasant smell. Blood may also be visible in the urine, making it appear pink, red, or cola-colored. Women may also experience pressure or discomfort just above the pubic bone.
When Stomach Upset Indicates a More Serious Infection
While stomach upset can be a general symptom of a lower UTI, its severity can also signal a more serious progression, particularly to the kidneys. A kidney infection, medically known as pyelonephritis, develops when bacteria from a lower urinary tract infection ascend to one or both kidneys. This condition requires prompt medical attention due to its potential for serious complications, including permanent kidney damage.
Symptoms of a kidney infection are more pronounced and systemic than those of a bladder infection. These include a high fever, often above 101°F (38.3°C), accompanied by chills and shaking. Significant pain in the lower back or side, just under the ribs, is also a common indicator, which can radiate to the front of the abdomen. Nausea and vomiting are also more prevalent and severe with kidney infections, contributing significantly to stomach upset.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections
Diagnosing a urinary tract infection begins with a review of symptoms and a physical examination. Healthcare providers often request a urine sample for analysis, which involves a urinalysis to check for white blood cells, red blood cells, bacteria, nitrites, and leukocyte esterase. A urine culture is performed to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and to determine which antibiotics will be most effective.
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for bacterial UTIs, with the specific type and duration depending on the infection’s severity and location. Common antibiotics include nitrofurantoin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, cephalexin, and fosfomycin. It is important to complete the entire course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated and prevent recurrence or antibiotic resistance. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract and alleviate discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol, can also help manage pain and fever.