Can UTI Cause Leg Pain?
August 26, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, a urinary tract infection (UTI) can potentially cause leg pain, especially if the infection is more severe or has spread to other parts of the urinary system.
UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, urethra, and in more severe cases, the kidneys. The symptoms of a UTI can vary and may include:
- Pain or Burning Sensation During Urination: This is a common symptom of UTIs and is usually felt in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.
- Frequent Urge to Urinate: UTIs can cause a feeling of needing to urinate frequently, even if only small amounts of urine are produced.
- Lower Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: The discomfort associated with a UTI is often centered around the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
- Back or Side Pain: If the UTI spreads to the kidneys, it can cause pain in the upper back or sides, near the rib cage.
- Flank Pain: This type of pain occurs in the area between the lower ribs and the hips and can be a sign of kidney involvement.
- Leg Pain: In some cases, especially if the UTI has spread to the kidneys or is causing more systemic symptoms, leg pain can occur. This might be due to the infection affecting the nerves or causing referred pain from the lower abdomen.
It’s important to note that leg pain as a result of a UTI is typically not the primary symptom, and it’s more commonly associated with more severe or complicated cases. If you’re experiencing leg pain along with other symptoms of a UTI, such as pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, or back pain, it’s recommended to seek medical attention. UTIs can usually be easily treated with antibiotics, and early treatment is important to prevent the infection from spreading and causing more severe complications.