When most people think of urinary tract infections (UTIs), they tend to think of women – but men can get UTIs too. In fact, while UTIs are less common in men, they can sometimes be more complicated or tied to other health issues. The good news is that with prompt treatment, urinary infections in men are very manageable and rarely life-threatening. In this post, we’ll explain what UTIs are, their causes and symptoms in men, how they differ from women, and why prompt care is important. If you’re a man in Coppell, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Valley Ranch, Irving, Las Colinas, Carrollton, or Grapevine experiencing UTI symptoms, AFC Urgent Care Coppell is here to provide convenient, professional care.

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Men

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system – this includes the kidneys, ureters (tubes from kidneys to bladder), bladder, or urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria (often Escherichia coli, or E. coli) from the bowel that enter the urinary tract. In men, these bacteria typically enter through the urethra (the tube that carries urine out through the penis) and travel up to the bladder, causing an infection.

UTIs are much more common in women than in men because women have a shorter urethra, giving bacteria easier access to the bladder. Men’s longer urethra and antibacterial prostatic fluids provide some protection. As a result, UTIs in men are relatively rare under age 50, but they become more common in older men. When UTIs do occur in men, they are often considered “complicated” UTIs, meaning they’re frequently linked to an underlying issue like prostate enlargement or kidney stones. This doesn’t mean the infection is untreatable – only that it’s important to identify and address any contributing factors.

How UTIs differ in men vs. women: In women, UTIs are usually simple bladder infections that are easily treated. In men, a UTI is more likely to be associated with other conditions such as an enlarged prostate, a kidney stone, or other urinary tract abnormalities. Men also tend to require a longer course of antibiotics to fully clear the infection (often around 7+ days, versus 3–5 days in women) because if bacteria have made it into a man’s urinary tract, they may be more persistent. The bottom line is that anyone can get a UTI, but men experience UTIs differently due to their anatomy and should take symptoms seriously.

Causes and Risk Factors of UTIs in Men

Most male UTIs start with common bacteria that live in the gut or on the skin. These bacteria cause no harm in the intestines, but if they get into the urinary tract, they can multiply and cause infection. Typically, bacteria enter at the urethral opening and travel up the urethra to the bladder. Men do not usually “catch” UTIs from sexual partners; an infection usually comes from bacteria already present on the body. However, certain behaviors and conditions can increase the risk of these bacteria causing trouble.

Key causes and risk factors for UTIs in men include:

• Enlarged Prostate (BPH): In older men, an enlarged prostate gland can press on the urethra and prevent the bladder from emptying completely. Urine retention allows bacteria to grow and cause infection. This is a common reason UTIs occur in men over 50.
• Kidney Stones: Stones in the urinary tract can block urine flow or harbor bacteria. Even after a UTI seems to clear, a stone can act as a reservoir for bacteria, leading to repeated infections. Removing or treating the stone may be necessary to stop recurrent UTIs.
• Diabetes and Weakened Immunity: High blood sugar can spill into the urine and feed bacteria, and a weakened immune system makes it harder to fight off infections. Men with diabetes or other conditions that suppress immunity have a higher UTI risk.
• Urinary Catheters or Recent Urinary Tract Surgery: A catheter provides a direct pathway for bacteria into the bladder, and any recent instrumentation or surgery on the urinary tract can introduce bacteria or cause inflammation that predisposes to infection.
• Dehydration or Holding Urine: Not drinking enough fluids and “holding it in” can concentrate bacteria in the bladder. When you stay well-hydrated and urinate regularly, you help flush out bacteria. Men who do not drink enough water or who frequently delay urination risk giving bacteria more time to grow.
• Being Uncircumcised: Uncircumcised men might have more bacterial buildup under the foreskin if hygiene is poor. This can increase UTI risk slightly. Good hygiene can mitigate this risk.
• Anal Intercourse without Protection: Men who engage in unprotected anal intercourse can introduce bowel bacteria into the urethra, raising the risk of UTIs. Using condoms and cleaning the genital area after sex can help prevent this.
• Other Factors: Extended immobility (which can lead to incomplete bladder emptying), fecal incontinence (which can introduce bacteria to the urethra), or any anatomical abnormalities in the urinary tract can also increase UTI susceptibility.

It’s worth noting that young adult men have a low incidence of UTIs. If a younger man gets a confirmed UTI, doctors may look for contributing factors (like a kidney stone or prior instrumentation). In older men, UTIs become more common due to age-related changes like prostate enlargement. Regardless of age, having any of the above risk factors doesn’t guarantee you’ll get a UTI, but it does make it more important to practice preventive measures (more on that below).

Common Symptoms of UTIs in Men

UTIs in men can cause a range of uncomfortable urinary symptoms, often similar to those women experience. The classic signs of a bladder infection (cystitis) in men include:

• Pain or burning during urination (dysuria). This burning sensation when you pee is one of the hallmark UTI symptoms.
• Frequent urge to urinate. You may feel the need to go again just minutes after you last emptied your bladder.
• Urinary urgency: Sudden, strong urges to urinate, even if the bladder isn’t full. It can feel difficult to hold urine in.
• Passing only small amounts of urine at a time. Despite the frequent urges, you might produce just a little urine each time.
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain: A pressure or discomfort in the central lower belly (just above the pubic bone). The bladder area may feel achy or tender.
• Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine: The urine may appear murky or reddish (indicating blood), and you might notice a strong, unpleasant odor. Blood in the urine (hematuria) can range from microscopic to visible red or brownish coloring.

These bladder-level symptoms tend to come on quickly and can range from mild to very bothersome. Men often notice “something isn’t right” when urination suddenly becomes painful or unusually frequent.

Signs of a more serious or upper UTI: If the infection travels beyond the bladder to the kidneys (pyelonephritis) or if it involves the prostate (prostatitis), additional symptoms can occur:

• Fever and chills: A significant infection may trigger a fever over 100°F and body chills. Fever is more common if the kidneys are infected or with acute prostatitis.
• Flank or back pain: Infection of the kidneys can cause pain in your sides or lower back (flank pain), typically on one side, just under the ribs. This pain can be sharp or achy.
• Nausea or vomiting: A kidney infection often makes people feel sick to their stomach. You might vomit or lose your appetite.
• General malaise or fatigue: You may feel unusually weak, tired, or generally unwell if the infection is spreading. In older men, sometimes confusion or unsteadiness can be the only sign of a UTI or other infection.
• Difficulty urinating or urinary retention: If the prostate is severely inflamed (acute prostatitis), men might find it very hard to urinate, or they may have a weak stream or feel like they cannot empty the bladder. Prostate involvement can also cause pain between the scrotum and rectum (perineal pain) in some cases.

It’s important to recognize these symptoms and not ignore them. A mild burning on urination that lasts a day and goes away might not be an infection – but if symptoms persist or worsen, get medical evaluation. UTI symptoms won’t get better on their own in most cases and can intensify if the infection spreads. Early treatment can relieve the discomfort quickly and prevent complications.

Potential Complications: Prostate and Kidney Involvement

UTIs in men can sometimes lead to complications if not addressed promptly. Two specific complications to be aware of are infections of the prostate gland and the kidneys:

• Prostatitis (Prostate Infection): In men, the bacteria causing a UTI can sometimes travel to the prostate gland, leading to an infection called bacterial prostatitis. This is more likely with acute UTIs in men. Acute bacterial prostatitis can cause high fever, chills, intense pelvic pain, and difficulty urinating (sometimes to the point of urinary retention). It’s a serious condition that needs prompt medical treatment – in fact, acute prostatitis can be life-threatening if not treated right away. The urgent care or ER will typically treat prostatitis with a longer course of antibiotics, and possibly IV fluids or pain control if needed. If you experience severe pelvic or rectal pain, fever, and trouble urinating, get medical help immediately. These symptoms could indicate prostatitis in addition to a UTI.
• Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): If a bladder infection is not treated, bacteria can ascend the ureters to one or both kidneys. A kidney infection is a type of upper UTI that often causes back/flank pain (usually on one side), higher fever, nausea, and generally makes you feel very ill. Kidney infections in men (and women) can sometimes require more aggressive treatment, such as intravenous antibiotics. Untreated kidney infections can potentially lead to kidney damage or spread to the bloodstream (sepsis), so this is not something to ignore. Signs like fever over 101°F, flank pain, or vomiting in the setting of a UTI suggest the infection might be involving the kidneys.
• Recurrent UTIs: Men don’t typically get frequent UTIs, so if you’ve had two or more UTIs in a short period, it could indicate a persistent underlying problem. Recurrent infections might be a sign of an untreated kidney stone, chronic prostate infection, or other structural issues. In such cases, a urologist may need to perform further testing (imaging, cystoscopy, etc.) to find out why infections keep happening. The team at AFC Urgent Care Coppell can help with the initial evaluation and, if needed, refer you to a specialist for ongoing issues.

The risk of these complications is one reason men are encouraged to seek care early for UTI symptoms. While most uncomplicated bladder infections won’t cause long-term harm, it’s better to be safe – especially since male UTIs are relatively uncommon and thus more likely to stem from an underlying issue. Prompt treatment can cure the infection and reduce the chance of it spreading to the prostate or kidneys.

How UTIs in Men Are Diagnosed

Diagnosing a UTI in men is straightforward. At AFC Urgent Care Coppell, our providers will start by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. Next, a simple urine test (urinalysis) is done: you’ll be asked to provide a urine sample, which is then tested for signs of infection such as bacteria, white blood cells, and sometimes blood. This in-office dipstick test can give results within minutes. If the urinalysis indicates a possible infection, the provider may send a sample for a urine culture to identify the exact bacteria and determine which antibiotic will work best. The culture results (which take 1-3 days) can confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment, but treatment will usually begin before culture results return based on the initial urinalysis.

In men with typical symptoms, additional tests are usually not needed for a first-time uncomplicated UTI. However, if you have severe symptoms or certain red flags, the provider might do a bit more evaluation. For example, if a kidney infection is suspected, blood tests might be ordered to check kidney function or signs of systemic infection. The urgent care provider might also gently examine your abdomen and sides for tenderness, and in some cases, a rectal exam is performed to assess the prostate (to see if it’s enlarged or tender), especially if prostatitis is a concern.

If you have a history of kidney stones or if the infection doesn’t improve with treatment, further imaging tests (like an ultrasound or CT scan) might be recommended later to look for stones or blockages. For most men though, the diagnosis is confirmed with a urine test, and the focus moves quickly to getting you treated and feeling better.

Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections in Men

The primary treatment for UTIs in men is antibiotic medication to kill the bacteria causing the infection. After confirming a UTI, the provider will select an appropriate antibiotic based on guidelines and your allergy history. Common antibiotics for UTIs include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, or others, depending on the situation. Men are often prescribed a longer course of antibiotics than women for UTIs – typically around 7 to 14 days of medication. This longer duration helps ensure the infection is fully eradicated, given that male UTIs are usually considered complicated. It’s important to take the full course of antibiotics even if you start feeling better in a couple of days. Stopping early can lead to recurrence or antibiotic resistance.

In addition to antibiotics, here’s what treatment might involve:

• Symptom Relief: If you’re experiencing pain or fever, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen can help reduce discomfort and fever. Drinking plenty of water is also advised – it dilutes your urine and helps flush out bacteria. At AFC Urgent Care Coppell, we may also recommend a urinary tract pain reliever (like phenazopyridine/AZO) for a day or two, which can ease burning during urination (note: this medication turns urine bright orange).
• Hydration: We can’t overemphasize the importance of drinking fluids. Water is best. Staying hydrated helps your body clear the infection more quickly. If you have a high fever or are vomiting and can’t keep fluids down (as can happen with a kidney infection), you might require IV fluids – in some cases, we can provide this in urgent care, or we may direct you to a hospital if needed.
• Follow-Up Culture: If a urine culture was sent to the lab, we will follow up with you if the results suggest a different antibiotic is needed. Occasionally, the initial antibiotic may not work if the bacteria is resistant. In that case, we’ll switch you to a more effective medication based on the culture results.
• Treatment of Underlying Issues: If we suspect an underlying issue (like a prostate infection or kidney stone), treatment might be adjusted accordingly. For prostatitis, antibiotics are usually given for a longer period (sometimes 4+ weeks for full clearance), and for kidney stones, you might need a referral to a urologist after the acute infection is handled. We’ll make sure you have a clear plan for any needed follow-up.

Most men start to notice improvement in UTI symptoms within 48 hours of starting antibiotics. If after a few days of treatment you are not feeling better (or feel worse), it’s important to return for re-evaluation. Sometimes a different antibiotic is required, or complications need to be ruled out. At AFC Urgent Care Coppell, we may bring you back in for a quick recheck or change in treatment if necessary – your health and comfort are our priority.

When to Visit Urgent Care for a UTI

Many urinary infections can be handled on an outpatient basis, and urgent care is an excellent option for prompt treatment. You should consider visiting AFC Urgent Care Coppell if you experience any of the UTI symptoms mentioned above – especially painful, frequent, or urgent urination, blood in urine, or lower abdominal pain that come on suddenly. Men, in particular, should not ignore these symptoms, because UTIs are uncommon enough in men that they warrant medical attention every time.

Here are some scenarios of when to seek urgent care for a possible UTI:

• Symptoms of a UTI that are not mild or that last more than a day. If you have consistent burning during urination or an urgent/frequent need to go that doesn’t quickly resolve, it’s time to get checked. Don’t “wait it out,” as infections can worsen if untreated.
• Presence of fever, back pain, or vomiting. These could indicate a kidney infection, which needs prompt treatment. Urgent care can evaluate you and start antibiotics; if needed, we’ll direct you to a higher level of care (ER) for severe cases, but often we can manage the start of treatment right away.
• Blood in your urine or severe pain. Blood in urine (even a pink tinge) should be evaluated. It can be due to a UTI or other causes like stones. Severe pain while urinating or inability to urinate (which can happen if the prostate is very swollen during infection) also merit an urgent medical visit.
• You can’t see your primary doctor quickly. UTIs can be very uncomfortable, and waiting several days for an appointment isn’t ideal. At urgent care, we can diagnose and treat you on a walk-in basis, including evenings and weekends when regular offices may be closed.
• Any UTI symptoms in a man with known risk factors. For instance, if you’re an older gentleman with an enlarged prostate and you start having UTI symptoms, come in sooner rather than later. Similarly, diabetic men should treat UTI signs as urgent, since infections can progress faster with elevated blood sugar.

One question we often hear is, “Should I go to urgent care or the ER for a UTI?” Generally, urgent care is appropriate for most UTIs. Our clinic can perform urine tests and prescribe antibiotics on the spot. However, if you are extremely ill – such as very high fever, severe flank pain, vomiting everything, or suspect something like sepsis (feeling faint, rapid heartbeat, etc.) – the emergency room is better equipped for those life-threatening complications. If you’re unsure, you can always come to AFC Urgent Care Coppell first; if we determine you need a higher level of care, we will help facilitate that.

Remember, urinary tract infections, even though painful, are highly treatable. Getting prompt care not only relieves your discomfort faster, but it also prevents the infection from spreading or causing any long-term issues.

AFC Urgent Care Coppell – Your Trusted Local Clinic for UTI Treatment

AFC Urgent Care Coppell is proud to serve the Coppell community and surrounding areas, including Lewisville, Valley Ranch, Irving, Las Colinas, Carrollton, and Grapevine. If you suspect a urinary infection, our clinic offers a convenient, cost-effective choice for evaluation and treatment. Here’s why many patients in the Dallas–Fort Worth area choose us for UTI care:

• Experienced Medical Team: Our board-certified providers have extensive experience treating UTIs in men (and women). We understand the unique considerations for male patients and will ensure you get the appropriate workup and medicine. You’ll be treated in a professional, respectful manner in a clean medical environment.
• Walk-In Convenience: We know UTIs can strike at any time. At AFC Urgent Care Coppell, walk-ins are welcome – no appointment is needed. Simply come to our clinic at a time that works for you (we offer extended evening and weekend hours). You’ll typically be seen much faster than an ER visit, and you’ll avoid the hassle of scheduling through a primary care office when you need quick relief.
• On-Site Lab Testing: Our urgent care center has an on-site lab, which means we can do immediate urinalysis testing and get results during your visit. If further tests are needed (like blood work or urine cultures), we handle that too. Fast lab results help you get an accurate diagnosis and start treatment right away.
• Comprehensive Urgent Care Services: UTIs often come with other concerns – maybe you also have a fever or you’re worried about dehydration. We can address all these issues in one visit. From prescribing antibiotics and fluids to giving you tips for symptom relief, consider us your one-stop shop for urgent healthcare needs.
• Accessibility and Location: Our Coppell clinic is conveniently located and easily accessible for residents of Coppell and nearby neighborhoods like Valley Ranch and Las Colinas, as well as the cities of Irving, Carrollton, Lewisville, and Grapevine. We aim to provide care close to home so you don’t have to travel far or wait long when feeling ill.
• Most Insurance Plans Accepted: We accept most major insurance plans, and our self-pay rates are affordable if you don’t have insurance. Urgent care co-pays and costs are typically much lower than an ER visit, saving you money. Our staff will gladly assist in verifying your coverage.
• Patient-Centered Care: Above all, we pride ourselves on a compassionate approach. We understand that urinary infections can be uncomfortable or even embarrassing to discuss – our providers will put you at ease, answer all your questions, and ensure you leave our clinic feeling reassured and on the road to recovery.

Visiting AFC Urgent Care Coppell means you’ll get fast, reliable care from a neighborhood provider that genuinely cares about your health. We’re a part of your community and are here when you need us, 7 days a week.

Prevention Tips for Urinary Infections in Men

While not all UTIs can be avoided, men can take several proactive steps to reduce their risk of urinary infections. Here are some prevention tips tailored for male patients:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day. Good hydration leads to more frequent urination, which helps flush bacteria out of the bladder. Aim for at least 6–8 glasses of water a day, or more if you’re active or in hot weather.
• Don’t “Hold It”: Use the restroom when you feel the urge to urinate and try to empty your bladder completely. Holding urine for too long gives bacteria a chance to multiply. Regular bathroom breaks (e.g. every 3-4 hours) are a healthy habit for your bladder.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Keep the genital area clean. For uncircumcised men, gently wash beneath the foreskin daily. After bowel movements, wiping carefully (or using wet wipes) can prevent bacteria from the anal area from getting near the urethra. Basic hygiene goes a long way in preventing infections.
• Urinate After Sexual Activity: After intercourse (especially anal sex), it’s wise to urinate soon afterward. This can help flush out any bacteria that may have gotten into the urethra. Cleaning the genital area before and after sex is also recommended. And as always, practicing safe sex (using condoms) can reduce introduction of unwanted bacteria.
• Manage Underlying Health Issues: If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar well-controlled can reduce sugar in the urine that feeds bacteria. For men with enlarged prostate issues or urinary retention, following your doctor’s advice for those conditions (medications, etc.) can help minimize UTI risk. Similarly, address kidney stones if you have them – staying hydrated and following dietary recommendations to prevent stones will also help prevent UTIs.
• Avoid Unnecessary Catheterization: If you or a loved one uses a catheter, ensure that it’s managed carefully. Catheters should be kept clean and removed as soon as they’re no longer needed, since they can introduce bacteria. Medical professionals can advise on catheter care to minimize infection risk.
• Consider Preventive Measures if UTIs are Recurrent: Fortunately, recurrent UTIs are uncommon in men. But if you have had more than one UTI, talk to your doctor. In some cases, a urologist might recommend prophylactic (preventive) antibiotics or additional tests to identify a cause. Generally, addressing the underlying issue (like treating a prostate problem or removing a stone) is the best prevention for future UTIs in men.

By adopting these habits, you can significantly lower the chances of getting a urinary infection. Prevention is always better than cure, and small daily practices can make a big difference in keeping your urinary tract healthy.

Don’t Ignore UTI Symptoms – We’re Here to Help

Urinary infections in men may be less common, but they do happen – and when they do, it’s important to take them seriously. The symptoms can range from annoying to quite painful, and complications can arise if you delay care. The bottom line is that if you’re a man experiencing burning urination, frequent urges, or any other UTI symptoms, you shouldn’t just tough it out. Instead, visit our friendly team at AFC Urgent Care Coppell for prompt evaluation and treatment. We welcome walk-in patients, and our clinic is equipped to get you the relief you need without delay. Most insurance plans are accepted, and our goal is to make your visit as smooth and reassuring as possible.

Don’t let a UTI disrupt your life – early treatment will have you feeling better fast. Our professional and caring providers in Coppell (serving the communities of Lewisville, Flower Mound, Valley Ranch, Irving, Las Colinas, Carrollton, and Grapevine) are ready to help you resolve the infection and get back to normal. If you’re experiencing UTI symptoms, come see us or contact us today. Walk-ins are always welcome, so you can get care on your schedule. At AFC Urgent Care Coppell, your health is our priority – let us help you get the prompt treatment and peace of mind you deserve.