UTI Symptoms in Men: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention Tips

When most people think of urinary tract infections (UTIs), they picture women as the usual sufferers. But here’s the surprising truth: UTIs in men, especially those over 50, are more common and more dangerous than many realise. If left untreated, a simple infection can spiral into kidney damage or even life-threatening sepsis. So, why are men often the last to recognise the signs? 

In this blog, we’ll uncover the hidden risks, symptoms you shouldn’t ignore, and how to treat and prevent UTIs before they become serious. If you’re a man — or care about one — this is a must-read.

What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can happen in any part of your urinary system, like your bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra. UTIs usually happen when bacteria get into the urinary tract through the urethra and start to grow/multiply in the bladder. 

Since men’s urethras are longer, they don’t get UTIs as often, but when they do, they are usually more difficult and can have worse results. The signs of a UTI infection in guys may be a little different from those in women, and getting treatment right away is very important to avoid complications.

Types of UTIs

Different types of UTIs are based on which part of the urinary tract they affect. Symptoms may be different for each type, as follows:

Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)

• Having pain in the side or lower back, often with a high fever
• Feeling sick(nausea), throwing up, and chills
• Complicated UTI symptoms may develop quickly if left untreated

Bladder Infection (Cystitis)

• Pain or pressure in the abdomen or pelvis
• Urinating a lot and feeling like it’s burning
• Urine that smells bad and has blood in it

Urethral Infection (Urethritis)

• Burning when you urinate
• Urethral leakage can happen in some cases

Symptoms of Urethritis are usually common, beginning symptoms of UTI in men

Figuring out the type of infection helps doctors give the right medicine. The male UTI symptoms often cross between these types, but if you don’t treat them, they can get worse quickly.

Symptoms of UTI in Men

Knowing what causes UTIS in guys is essential for finding them early. Different people can show other UTI infection symptoms, but some are more common in men, especially those over 50. 

Here explore UTI symptoms in men: 

• A strong and regular need to go to the toilet, even when the bladder is almost empty
• Pain or burning while urinating
• Urine that is cloudy, dark, or red and smells bad
• Back pain, pelvic pain, or pain in the lower belly
• Being tired, having a fever, and having chills are all signs of kidney problems.
• Having pain/discomfort in the pelvis, especially near the pubic bone
• Pain or discomfort while ejaculating or during sexual activity

It is important to get a correct diagnosis because the signs and symptoms of UTI in men are sometimes mistaken for those of other conditions like prostatitis.

Causes of UTIs in Men

Various internal and external factors can lead to urinary tract infection in men. These may include:

• A transfer of bacteria from the digestive system to the urethra.
• Sexual behaviour or getting an STI like gonorrhoea or chlamydia.
• An enlarged prostate that causes urine retention.
• Having recently used a urinary catheter or had a urinary procedure
• Having kidney stones that can block the urinary system.
• Diabetes or other health problems that weaken the immune system.

Ways to Treat It

The treatment of UTI in men involves getting rid of the infection and managing the underlying problems that might cause it to come back. Some effective treatment options are:

• Antibacterial drugs are given based on the type of bacteria found in the urine sample.
• Drinking a lot of water can help flush out bacteria in the body.
• Medications to ease stomach pain or fever.
• Taking care of underlying issues like kidney stones or a bigger prostate.
• Hospitalisation in severe cases is done when UTI symptoms in men are complex.
• Keeping distance from things that can irritate the bladder, like coffee, alcohol, sugary, and spicy food.

If you don’t finish the treatment, you could end up with repeated UTI symptoms in men and problems like kidney damage or recurrent infections.

UTI Infection Symptoms Home Remedies

Even though urinary tract infections can be painful, there are things you can do to make yourself feel better until antibiotics can treat the illness. Do these things:

• Drink a lot of water to flush out toxins through pee and cleanse the bladder.
• Consume herbal tea made with anti-bacterial and therapeutic properties like cinnamon tea, ginger tea, fenugreek tea, etc.
• Stay away from sugary or carbonated drinks and alcohol that could make your bladder hurt.
• Drink natural cranberry juice to boost immunity against the UTI.
• Maintain hygiene by cleaning yourself with plain water. Avoid using soaps and cleansers that may irritate your skin.
• Consume natural probiotic foods like yogurt, buttermilk, sauerkraut, pickled vegetables, etc., to increase healthy bacteria in the body.
• Use warm up with a pad to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Read More: Navigating the Urinary Tract Infection After Sex

Conclusion

Urinary tract infections in men are not as common, but they can be more dangerous. Men who have UTIs need to catch the signs early on to avoid complications and start treatment that works. Whether you’re just starting to notice signs of a UTI or frequent flare-ups, you need to see a doctor immediately. If you experience frequent UTI symptoms, like urinating in pain or having stomach pain, you should act quickly to protect your health.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to UTI Symptoms