Most UTIs are in the lower part of the urethra and are not usually a cause for major concern. But occasionally, if left untreated, the bacteria can travel into one or both kidneys, which can become a kidney infection and you may need emergency treatment.
‘Watch out for a very high temperature, feeling unwell, weak and shivery, or pain in your back or sides – which can be a sign of a kidney infection,. It’s important to seek emergency treatment if suffering from any of these symptoms.
If treated quickly, antibiotics can clear a kidney infection. But if left untreated it can cause damage to the kidneys or the infection can enter the bloodstream.