How Do I Know if I Have a UTI?

How Do I Know if I Have a UTI?

You may notice signs of a UTI before anyone else can see there's anything wrong with you. That's why it's important to talk with a parent if you're having peeing problems. Ask yourself these questions and share your answers with your doctor:

* Does it hurt or sting when you pee?
* Do you have to go to the bathroom much more often than normal?
* Can you only pee a little bit at a time?
* Do you have to get up many times in the night to pee?
* Do you feel pain, pressure, or a tickle in your lower belly?
* Is there blood in your pee?
* Is your pee cloudy?
* Does it smell bad when you pee?


Also be sure to tell a doctor if you have any of those symptoms, plus you feel feverish, have the chills, or have pain in your belly or back, just under your lower ribs. These are signs of a kidney infection and you should see a doctor right away.

Once you've had a UTI, you'll never want to have one again! To help keep those bacteria out of your urinary tract, take these steps:

* Keep clean. Wash your private parts every day when you take a bath or shower.
* If you're a girl, always wipe from front to back when you go to the bathroom.
* Don't hold it. If you have to go, go.
* If you're a girl, think twice about taking bubble baths because they can bother the urethra.
* Wear cotton underwear. Nylon underwear traps moisture near your body, especially when it's hot outside. Bacteria love to grow in warm, moist places.