Back pain that comes on suddenly can raise a lot of questions, especially when you also notice burning with urination or the urge to go more often. Many people are surprised to learn that a urinary tract infection can cause back pain.
When bacteria begin traveling toward the kidneys, the infection can trigger a deep ache or sharp discomfort in the flank area under the ribs. This type of pain can feel alarming, and it is an important sign that the infection may be more advanced.
You may be asking yourself, Can a UTI cause back pain? The short answer is yes. Understanding why this happens and when to seek care can help you know what to do next.
What Are the Symptoms of a UTI?
UTI symptoms change based on the infection’s location. When the infection is in the bladder or urethra, known as the lower urinary tract, symptoms include:
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Feeling the urge to urinate often
- Passing only small amounts of urine
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
- Pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen
Upper urinary tract symptoms are a sign that the infection is more serious and suggestive of a kidney infection. They include:
- Pain in your back or side
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feeling generally unwell
- Extreme tiredness
Can a UTI Cause Back Pain?
Back pain from a UTI:
- Often includes sharp pain, ache, or throbbing in the flank area
- Is typically located on one side
- Comes with other UTI symptoms, such as burning with urination or fever
- Can worsen with movement or pressure over the kidney area
Back pain from muscle strain or spine issues:
- May improve with stretching or changing positions
- May radiate down the leg, known as sciatica
- Happens without urinary symptoms like fever or urgency
- Is more common after lifting, twisting, or sitting for long periods
Does Back Pain Mean the Infection Has Reached My Kidneys?
Back or flank pain strongly suggests the infection may have reached the kidneys. But it’s not the only possible cause. Some bladder infections cause discomfort in other areas of the body, and some people have both musculoskeletal pain and a UTI at the same time.
Kidney infections can become serious quickly, so it’s safer to be evaluated early. Persistent or intense back pain (especially with fever, nausea, or chills) should be treated as a potential kidney infection.
How Can I Get Relief From UTI-Related Back Pain?
Treating the infection is the most important step. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. And once the bacteria are cleared, back pain usually begins to ease within a few days.
Dehydration can worsen symptoms by concentrating bacteria in the urine, so drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria. You should also rest until the infection improves and take over-the-counter pain relievers if your doctor approves.
Is UTI Back Pain Serious?
Back pain associated with a UTI is more serious than a typical bladder infection, as it can signal a kidney infection. An untreated kidney infection can spread to the bloodstream, so prompt medical care and antibiotics are needed to reduce this risk.
Should I Call My Doctor About Back Pain I Think Is From a UTI?
If you notice back pain along with urinary symptoms, it’s best to contact your doctor rather than waiting to see if things improve on their own. Call your doctor right away if you have:
- Back or flank pain with fever
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Burning with urination, combined with side or back pain
- Symptoms that worsen instead of improving
- A history of kidney infections
- A weakened immune system
- UTI symptoms lasting more than 48 hours
While the intensity of pain may fluctuate, the discomfort of a kidney infection rarely disappears on its own. You’ll need treatment to resolve it and prevent complications.
Our urology specialists can help rule out a kidney infection and design a treatment plan to prevent complications.
Don’t continue to wonder, “Can a UTI cause back pain?” – call (541)334-3350 to schedule an appointment today! Our urologists provide expert treatment for UTIs in the greater Eugene-Springfield, OR area.