Can men get UTIs?

Published May 4 2021 inSexual Health

2 minutes read

While it is true a urinary tract infection (UTI) are most common among women, men can also develop them. A urinary tract infection can be very painful and uncomfortable but can be easily treated. Here, we discuss the symptoms, causes and treatments for UTIs in men.

UTIs develop as a result of a build-up of bacteria in the upper urinary tract and/or lower urinary tract. The urinary tract runs from the kidneys, down through the ureters, to the bladder and into the urethra. The build-up of bacteria which causes a UTI can take place anywhere along this system, which can result in a bladder infection or kidney infection.

UTI symptoms in men

Signs of a urinary tract infection can include:

Fever
Pain and burning sensation when urinating
Frequent urination
Pain in lower abdomen
Blood in urine
Cloudy urine
Difficulty urinating
Feeling tired and unwell

Older people may also experience changes in behaviour such as severe confusion or agitation. UTI symptoms may be difficult to spot in people with dementia.

Treatment for urinary tract infections

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections can usually clear up on its own without treatment, though this may cause a few days of discomfort. Home remedies for treating minor, uncomplicated UTIs include staying hydrated, drinking cranberry juice, and taking probiotics and vitamin C.

If these treatments are not successful or the infection becomes more complicated, antibiotics can be prescribed. If left untreated, UTIs can cause serious kidney problems.

Implications of urinary tract infections in men

Several risk factors can result from getting a UTI. If antibiotics don’t relieve the symptoms, or you have prolonged or recurrent urinary tract infections, it is important to get this checked by a doctor. This is because a UTI could be a symptom of a more serious health issue such as an enlarged prostate gland, kidney stones, diabetes or a urethral stricture. If one of these issues is suspected, your doctor will likely conduct a prostate exam, take a urine sample or suggest that you have a scan.

Other causes of urinary tract infections in men

A urinary tract infection in men can also be caused by STIs such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea. These are the most common causes for UTIs in younger men. If you are a sexually active young man with a UTI, you should also consider getting tested for a sexually transmitted disease.

Get tested with Better2Know

Better2Know can help you to get tested for both UTIs and sexually transmitted infections. Our UCEM test can detect the presence of a UTI. We also provide quick and confidential testing for a sexually transmitted infection to give you peace of mind surrounding your sexual health.

Arrange an appointment today at a clinic near you or speak to one of our highly trained sexual health advisors for more information and advice.