What to Do About Urinary Tract Infections in Men? Causes, Symptoms and Modern Treatment

Men, too, can suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs) – particularly at an older age or with prostate problems. Yet the symptoms are often underestimated or misread. In this article, you'll learn how to recognise an infection early, what causes it, and what targeted treatment looks like.

What Forms of Urinary Tract Infection Occur in Men?

UTI covers various conditions affecting the urinary tract. The most important are:

Bladder infection (cystitis)

• Inflammation of the bladder lining
• The most common form of UTI

Urethritis

• Usually sexually transmitted
• Itching, burning, and discharge are possible

Pyelonephritis (kidney infection)

• A serious infection of the upper urinary tract
• May require inpatient treatment

Prostatitis

• Inflammation of the prostate
• Often associated with UTIs

What Are Typical Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection in Men?

Symptoms can vary depending on location, but common signs include:

• Burning during urination
• Frequent urination, including at night
• Pain in the lower abdomen or perineum
• Cloudy, foul-smelling urine
• Fever and chills in severe cases

Note: especially in older men or after prostate surgery, a UTI can also present with nonspecific symptoms such as weakness or confusion.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections in Men?

Male UTIs are often more complex than in women and frequently have the following underlying causes:

• Enlarged prostate: residual urine promotes bacterial growth
• Bladder emptying disorders: for example due to diabetes or nerve damage
• Narrowing of the urethra (stricture)
• Catheterisation: increases the risk of infection
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

How Does Diagnosis at the Urologist Work?

Diagnosis depends on the symptoms and typically includes:

• Urine test: test strips (leukocytes, nitrite), microscopy
• Urine culture: identifying the exact pathogen and resistance testing
• Blood test: in cases of fever and suspected kidney involvement
• Ultrasound: assessment of bladder, kidneys, and prostate
• Cystoscopy: for recurrent infections, to check for narrowing

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the infection:

Acute, uncomplicated UTI

• Short-course antibiotic therapy after pathogen identification

Complicated UTI

• Longer-term antibiotics, possibly inpatient
• Treatment of the underlying condition (e.g. BPH)

Additional measures that help

• Drinking plenty of fluids (2–3 litres daily)
• Applying warmth
• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers (e.g. ibuprofen)

For recurring infections

• Immune-strengthening measures
• Long-term prophylaxis (e.g. herbal preparations)
• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers

How Can I Prevent Urinary Tract Infections?

Prevention is especially important for men with prostate conditions or diabetes:

Practical tips

• Urinate regularly and completely
• Drink enough fluids
• Practise intimate hygiene (without overdoing it, but regularly)
• Change underwear daily
• Use condoms with changing partners
• Empty the bladder after sex

Take Urinary Tract Infections Seriously – Act Purposefully

A urinary tract infection is not a trivial matter for men. Recognising and treating symptoms early avoids complications and secondary conditions. With the right diagnosis and treatment, most infections can be brought under control quickly and lastingly.