What symptom typically indicates a urinary tract infection?

Frequent urination is a hallmark symptom of a urinary tract infection (UTI). In a UTI, the bladder or urethra becomes inflamed and irritated, leading to an increased urge to urinate, often accompanied by a reduced volume of urine during each episode. This symptom occurs due to the body’s response to infection, as it signals the need to eliminate the pathogens from the urinary tract.

Nausea, back pain, and weight loss can indeed be associated with various medical conditions, but they are not specifically indicative of a UTI. Nausea may arise from numerous issues, such as gastrointestinal disturbances, while back pain often relates more to musculoskeletal problems or other kidney-related conditions. Weight loss can occur for a variety of reasons, including chronic illness or metabolic disorders, but is not a typical symptom of a UTI. Frequent urination stands out as a primary symptom directly tied to the infection and inflammation in the urinary tract.