What is the Difference Between a UTI and a Kidney Infection?
Medically reviewed by Lauren Okafor | MD, The Frank H Netter MD School of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center on August 22nd, 2026.
A UTI affects the lower urinary tract while a kidney infection affects the upper urinary tract. UTIs typically involve the bladder and urethra, causing symptoms like burning during urination, frequent urination, and pelvic pain. Kidney infections are more serious, occurring when bacteria travel from the bladder to the kidneys. They cause fever, back or side pain, nausea, and vomiting in addition to UTI symptoms. About 20-30% of women experience recurrent UTIs, but kidney infections are less common. Kidney infections require immediate medical attention as they can lead to permanent kidney damage or sepsis if untreated, while simple UTIs often resolve with standard antibiotic treatment.
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