Does urinary tract infection cause chills?

Chills are episodes of feeling cold or shivering, sometimes occurring as a fever rises. With a urinary tract infection, they can accompany burning when passing urine, needing to urinate often, pressure low in the abdomen, or urine that looks cloudy. Chills with pain in the side or back, nausea, or feeling markedly unwell can occur when infection involves the kidneys rather than only the bladder. Chills have other causes too, so this symptom alone cannot identify the source.

Arrange medical advice if chills occur with urinary symptoms, particularly if they return or you feel feverish. A clinician may ask about your symptoms and test a urine sample. Drink normally unless a clinician has told you to restrict fluids, rest, and keep track of new pain, vomiting, or changes in urination. Do not use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s medicine; the right treatment depends on the cause and your health circumstances.

Seek prompt medical care for chills with a high temperature, pain in the back or side, repeated vomiting, confusion, severe weakness, or difficulty keeping fluids down. Get urgent help if you are unable to pass urine, become faint, or have trouble breathing. Pregnant people, children, older adults, and people with diabetes, kidney problems, or a weakened immune system should seek advice early when chills and urinary symptoms occur.

Could my chills indicate kidney involvement? Do I need a urine test or culture? Which symptoms should prompt urgent review? What pain or fever relief is suitable with my medicines and health conditions?