Most people think of women getting urinary tract infections (UTIs), but men can get them too. They’re caused by bacteria in the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra. Only about 3% of men get UTIs, but when they do, it’s often more complicated than when women get them. UTIs are also more likely to spread to the kidneys and upper urinary tract in men. In some instances, men’s UTI lead them to have surgery.
Symptoms of UTIs in men
While many men get urinary tract infections with no symptoms, those who do may experience pain during urination, a frequent urge to urinate, an inability to start urinating, urine leakage, a sudden urge to urinate, only urinating small amounts, blood in the urine; cloudy urine, foul-smelling urine and/or pain in the lower abdomen.
In more serious cases, urinary tract infections in men can cause fever, chills, nausea, vomiting and back pain (an indication that the UTI has spread to the kidneys or upper urinary tract).
Risk factors for UTIs in men
Some men are more likely to get UTIs than others. Men over 50 are at a greater risk, as are those with diabetes, an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, an abnormal narrowing of the urethra, dehydration, an uncircumcised penis and bladder issues.
In addition, men who have had anal intercourse 9which exposes the urethra to bacteria), procedures involving the urinary tract or health conditions (or prescriptions) that suppress the immune system.
Although men can “catch” a urinary tract infection from a woman he has sex with, it’s not very common.
Diagnosing a UTI in men
If you think you have a UTI, your doctor will probably ask you about your symptoms, check for swelling in your back, abdomen, bladder area or sides, ask about your medical history and suggest some lab work.
A urine test will determine if there is pus or bacteria in your urine. If you have a history of diabetes, kidney stones, TB or polycystic kidneys, your medical provider may also suggest imaging exams.
