UTI in Men: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment at Urgent Care

A UTI in men is less common than in women. However, when one does happen, it often signals a condition that needs attention. If you are a man with burning urination, urgency, or other urinary symptoms, same-day urgent care can diagnose and treat you quickly.

UTI Symptoms in Men

UTI symptoms in men overlap with those in women. However, context matters because male UTIs are less common and often more serious. Here are the key signs to watch for:

• Burning or pain during urination (also called dysuria)
• Frequent urge to urinate, even when the bladder feels empty
• Cloudy, dark, or bad-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine, which can range from a pink tint to visible red
• Pelvic or lower belly pressure
• Feeling like your bladder did not fully empty

In addition, these symptoms suggest the infection has spread to the kidneys or prostate:

• Fever and chills
• Flank or back pain
• Pain between the legs, which can point to prostatitis
• Trouble starting to urinate or a weak stream

Why Do Men Get UTIs?

Men have a longer urethra than women. As a result, bacteria have a harder time reaching the bladder. Because of this, a UTI in men is rare under age 50. Also, it usually calls for further testing. Here are the most common causes:

• Enlarged prostate (BPH): This blocks urine flow. As a result, the bladder does not empty all the way, and bacteria grow.
• Kidney stones: These can block urine flow and create conditions for infection.
• Urinary catheter use: Catheters give bacteria a direct path into the urinary tract.
• Structural issues: Any blockage that stops the bladder from emptying raises the risk.
• Weak immune system: For example, diabetes, HIV, or certain medications can raise UTI risk.
• Sexual activity: Specifically, anal intercourse raises the chance of a UTI.
• Being uncircumcised: There is a slightly higher risk because bacteria can collect under the foreskin.

UTI in Men vs. Women: Key Differences

The symptoms of a UTI in men and women can look alike. However, there are key differences. First, male UTIs are far less common. Only about 3% of men get one in a given year. In contrast, roughly 12% of women do. Because of this gap, a male UTI is treated as “complicated” by default. As a result, it needs a longer course of antibiotics.

Second, male UTIs are more likely to involve the prostate. For example, bacterial prostatitis causes pelvic pain, trouble urinating, and fever. It needs 4 to 6 weeks of antibiotics. Meanwhile, a woman with a simple bladder UTI might take antibiotics for just 3 days. In comparison, a man with the same symptoms needs at least 7 days.

Also, men under 50 with a UTI almost always have a clear cause. Therefore, your provider may order imaging or refer you to a urologist. In contrast, women often get UTIs without any underlying problem.

How Is a UTI Diagnosed in Men?

At CityHealth San Leandro, the steps for diagnosing a male UTI include:

1. Urinalysis: First, a dipstick test checks for white blood cells, nitrites, and blood. Results come back in minutes.
2. Urine culture: Next, this test finds the exact bacteria and which antibiotics work against it. Results take 24 to 72 hours.
3. Physical exam: Also, the provider checks for prostate tenderness and flank tenderness.
4. STI testing: Because gonorrhea and chlamydia can mimic a UTI in men, a urine STI test is often a good idea.

UTI Treatment for Men

Treatment depends on where the infection is. Here are the main options:

• Simple bladder UTI: A 7-day antibiotic course. Common choices include ciprofloxacin or TMP-SMX.
• Kidney infection: A 10 to 14 day course. In some cases, IV antibiotics at the hospital are needed.
• Bacterial prostatitis: A 4 to 6 week course, because the antibiotics must reach the prostate tissue.

Culture results guide the choice of antibiotic. However, starting treatment before results come back is normal. If needed, the provider will switch your medication later.

Over-the-Counter Options for UTI in Men

No over-the-counter product can cure a UTI in men. Antibiotics from a provider are always needed. However, some OTC products help manage symptoms while you wait for your visit:

• Phenazopyridine (AZO, Uristat): This numbs the bladder lining. As a result, it reduces burning during urination. However, it does not treat the infection. Also, it turns urine bright orange.
• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen: These help with pain and fever. In addition, ibuprofen reduces swelling.
• Extra water: Drinking more water helps flush bacteria. Aim for at least 8 glasses per day.

Importantly, do not rely on cranberry supplements or juice. While some data supports cranberry for prevention in women, the evidence for men is limited. Also, cranberry cannot replace antibiotics for an active infection. Therefore, see a provider as soon as possible.

Tips for Faster Recovery

While antibiotics do the heavy lifting, a few habits can help you feel better sooner. First, drink plenty of water. This helps flush bacteria from your system. Also, avoid caffeine and alcohol because both can irritate the bladder. In addition, take the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms fade early. Stopping too soon lets bacteria survive and come back stronger.

When to Go to the ER for a UTI

Go to the emergency room if a UTI comes with any of these warning signs:

• High fever above 102 degrees F, because this suggests a kidney infection or sepsis
• Complete inability to urinate (urinary retention)
• Severe flank or back pain with fever
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Signs of sepsis: rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, or extreme weakness

However, for most men with standard UTI symptoms like burning, urgency, and frequency, urgent care is the right first step. CityHealth San Leandro can evaluate you, run urinalysis, and prescribe antibiotics the same day.

For more details on UTIs and treatment, visit the NIDDK UTI guide.

Frequently Asked Questions: UTI in Men

Can men get UTIs?
Yes. While UTIs are much more common in women, men can get them at any age. However, men under 50 with a UTI often have a cause that should be checked out.

What is the difference between a UTI and a prostate infection?
Both cause urinary symptoms. However, prostatitis involves the prostate gland specifically. It causes pelvic pain, trouble urinating, and fever. Also, it needs 4 to 6 weeks of antibiotics. In contrast, a bladder UTI needs only 7 days.

Can a UTI in men go away on its own?
Unlike some mild UTIs in women, male UTIs almost always need antibiotics. Because the prostate or kidneys may be involved, untreated infections can get worse fast. Therefore, always see a provider.