4 Subtle Signs of a UTI

About half of women will have at least one urinary tract infection (UTI) in their lifetime.  You may be familiar with the common symptoms of a UTI, like burning while urinating or an extreme urgency to go, but these infections may also present with less obvious symptoms. 

The OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills in South Bay, Redondo Beach, and Beverly Hills, California wants you to be on the lookout for these four subtle signs of a UTI. 

Identifying these less obvious signs early can help prevent the infection from worsening and ensure timely treatment. 

1. Unexplained fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or experiencing a general sense of unwellness can be an early sign of a UTI. Although fatigue is a common symptom of many conditions, it may be related to an underlying infection when it appears without a clear cause. 

The body's immune response to the urinary tract infection can drain your energy, leaving you feeling more tired than usual. 

2. Unusual urine

Changes in the appearance of your urine can also indicate a UTI. Even before you experience pain or burning during urination, you may notice cloudy or unusually colored urine. 

Normal urine should be clear or light yellow. If you notice that your urine is cloudy, dark, or has a strong odor, it could be due to the presence of bacteria or white blood cells, both of which are indicators of infection.

3. Lower abdominal discomfort

Mild, persistent discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen and pelvic area can be another subtle sign of a UTI. You may mistake this discomfort for menstrual cramps, digestive issues, or even just general cramping. 

But, if the pain or pressure is localized around the bladder area, especially if it’s accompanied by other UTI symptoms, you may consider infection as a possible cause.

4. Low-grade fever or chills

A low-grade fever or chills can be a subtle but significant sign of a UTI. This is particularly true if you don’t have other symptoms of a cold or flu. A slight increase in body temperature can indicate that your body is fighting off a urinary tract infection. 

Take action if you suspect you have a UTI

If you notice any of these subtle signs, and especially if you notice more blatant signs, it’s important for you to take them seriously. Early detection and treatment can prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys, which can lead to more severe health issues. 

Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria out of your system. Make an appointment at our office to get a clear diagnosis and be prescribed any medication to help resolve your UTI. Take all of your antibiotics, if prescribed, even if you start to feel better. You need the full course to wipe out the infection completely. 

Recognizing the subtle signs of a urinary tract infection can help you catch it early and get appropriate treatment. Call or use the online tool to book an appointment at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills today. We’re ready to answer any questions about your urinary health.