A urinary tract infection (UTI) can lead to severe, life-threatening complications if left untreated, though such outcomes are rare. Early detection and prompt treatment are important to prevent these serious consequences. While many UTIs are mild and respond well to antibiotics, ignoring symptoms can allow the infection to progress and affect other parts of the body.
The Journey of an Untreated UTI
A UTI begins when bacteria, often from the bowel, enter the urethra and multiply, leading to an infection in the bladder, known as cystitis. If not addressed, these bacteria can travel upward. They may ascend from the bladder through the ureters to the kidneys.
Once bacteria reach the kidneys, they can cause a more serious infection called pyelonephritis. This kidney infection can lead to significant damage to kidney tissues. From the kidneys, bacteria can then enter the bloodstream. This entry of bacteria into the bloodstream allows the infection to spread throughout the body.
Life-Threatening Outcomes
Once bacteria from an untreated UTI enter the bloodstream, it can trigger a severe condition called sepsis. Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to an infection. When the immune system fights the infection, it can damage the body’s own tissues and organs. Sepsis originating from a urinary tract infection is known as urosepsis.
Urosepsis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. If sepsis progresses, it can lead to septic shock, the most severe stage. Septic shock occurs when the infection causes extremely low blood pressure and widespread organ failure.
This drop in blood pressure means organs do not receive enough blood flow, leading to their dysfunction. Multi-organ failure can then occur, potentially resulting in death. The mortality rate for severe sepsis can range between 20% and 40%. Severe or recurrent kidney infections from an untreated UTI can also lead to acute kidney injury or chronic kidney damage.
Recognizing Critical Symptoms
It is important to differentiate between typical UTI symptoms and those indicating a more severe, potentially life-threatening infection. While common UTI symptoms include frequent urination, a burning sensation during urination, and pelvic pain, certain “red flag” symptoms suggest the infection has escalated. These severe symptoms require immediate medical attention.
A high fever, typically above 101°F (38.3°C), accompanied by chills, often indicates that the infection has reached the kidneys. Severe back or flank pain is another indicator of kidney involvement. Nausea and vomiting also suggest a more serious infection, such as pyelonephritis.
Confusion or altered mental status can be a sign of systemic infection affecting the brain. A rapid heart rate and low blood pressure are additional symptoms that can point to sepsis or septic shock. These symptoms signify that the body’s response to the infection is affecting major bodily functions.
Prioritizing Prompt Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment of a UTI are important to prevent the progression to severe complications like urosepsis and septic shock. Most UTIs are effectively treated with a course of antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment usually lasts several days, with longer courses for more complicated infections. Symptoms often begin to improve within a few days of starting antibiotics.
It is important to complete the entire prescribed course of antibiotics, even if symptoms resolve earlier. This ensures the complete elimination of bacteria and reduces the risk of the infection returning or developing antibiotic resistance. If UTI symptoms persist or worsen after 1 to 2 days of treatment, or if severe symptoms such as high fever, severe pain, or confusion develop, immediate medical attention is necessary.