The first signs of a bladder infection can vary from person to person, but typically include: • A Painful Burning Sensation — A strong burning sensation when urinating is one of the most common signs of bladder infection; this occurs when bacteria, most often E. coli, get into the urethra. • Frequent Need to Urinate — Many people with bladder infections experience the need to go to the bathroom often, even if they just went; these frequent urges to empty the bladder typically do not produce much urine. • Urgency When Needing to Urinate — A prominent sign of a bladder infection is rushing to the bathroom often, with an urgent need to urinate right away. This typically is accompanied by painful urination. • Abdominal Pain — Pressure, pain, or tenderness in the abdomen and pubic area is common with a bladder infection, but if the pain moves to the lower back, it could be indicative of an infection that has spread to the kidneys. • Cloudy or Bloody Urine — Cloudy urine is a common symptom of bladder infection; if there is blood in the urine, it may be a sign of leakage of red blood cells from the kidneys, which should be treated as soon as possible. • Strong Smelling Urine — This is often the first indication that a bladder infection is underway. The foul-smelling odor is caused by the bacteria responsible for the infection; it may have a strong ammonia smell, but it may also have a sweet scent or just smell off. • Fever — while less common, and certainly not an indicator on its own, people who have symptoms of a bladder infection in addition to fever, should visit your provider immediately.