Can a UTI Cause a Rash or Hives?

Yes, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can indeed lead to skin rashes in adults, although the UTI bacteria itself typically isn’t the direct cause.

These rashes can be linked to the medications used for treating UTIs. In more severe cases, rashes can be a symptom of a more serious complication of UTIs, called sepsis.

UTIs have also been associated with the occurrence of hives, which can appear anywhere on the body and may change shape.

Although UTIs can in rare cases indirectly cause rashes and hives, it’s important to keep in mind that these skin reactions can also be due to other health conditions that mimic UTI symptoms or you may have another type of infection alongside your UTI.

Key takeaways:

  • A UTI can indirectly cause a skin rash due to medications used for treatment.
  • In rare cases, rashes with a UTI can be a sign of sepsis.
  • Hives have also been linked to UTIs.
  • It could also be possible that the skin reactions are not due to the UTI itself, but another condition that mimics UTI symptoms or a separate infection.
  • It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
  • If you experience any unusual skin reactions or severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to avoid potential complications.

Continue reading for more information on the link between UTIs and skin rashes and to find out what other conditions may cause similar symptoms.

Table of Contents

Can a UTI Cause a Rash in Adults?

A UTI can cause a rash in adults, but the bacteria itself is not usually the primary cause.

What Can Cause Rashes When You Have a UTI?

Those who have recurrent UTIs may find that they experience regular skin rashes. Although this is not related to the bacteria causing the UTI, it can be related to the medicine you’re using to treat the condition.

There are also much more serious causes of a rash if you have a UTI. One example would be sepsis. If you want to find out more about any of these conditions as well as when you should see a doctor, then take a look below.

Medicinal Reaction

The main and most common reason why people experience a rash when they have a UTI is because of a drug-related reaction. Some people even experience full-blown allergic reactions as a result of taking a drug designed to treat UTIs as well. 

The main medicine that is used to treat UTIs, which can also cause skin reactions is nitrofurantoin. This is the most effective and common antibiotic used to treat UTIs, and in some instances, it is even prescribed to those with long-term or recurrent UTI infections. 

Some of the side effects of this medication include feeling sick, being sick, loss of appetite, dizziness, or headaches. Taking this medication after a meal can help to eliminate the feeling of nausea.

Urosepsis

This is a life-threatening complication. Urosepsis is a sepsis infection that has resulted from a UTI. Sepsis develops when bacteria makes its way into the blood. It’s important to know that urosepsis is very different from nephritis or an uncomplicated kidney infection. 

If you do experience urosepsis then this is a widespread reaction and as a result, you may experience varying symptoms. When the infection has spread to your blood, you will experience palpitations, a skin rash, low temperature, fever, and nausea. In some instances, septic shock can occur. If you remotely suspect that you have urosepsis then seeing a doctor immediately is the best course of action.

Skin Diseases

It is entirely possible to have a contaminant disease, at the same time as your UTI. It can be very easy for you to confuse this, with the symptoms that occur with your UTI. Some of the biggest causes of skin rash can include urticaria, dermatitis, ringworm, and more. 

If you develop any kind of rash during your UTI, then your doctor should be able to advise you on the best course of action. The presence of a UTI could well worsen your skin disease, due to your immune system working overtime. That being said, the two may not actually be connected.

But Can a UTI Cause Hives?

It is possible for bacterial and viral infections to cause hives. If you have a urinary tract infection, then this has been associated with hives by various medical bodies. The American College of Immunology has documented that the common cold, as well as strep throat and urinary tract infections, are often triggers for hives. 

If you suspect that you have hives, then you should know that the symptoms can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few months. The hives you have may resemble bug bites, but there are ways for you to tell the difference. 

Hives can appear anywhere in the body and it is possible for them to change shape as well. They can move around, and reappear after a very short period of time, and it’s also possible for them to change shape. 

If you have bumps that have a clear edge, that suddenly go away, or that appear suddenly, then this is indicative of an infection. Pressing the middle of the red hive may also make it turn white, another sign of a bacterial cause, as opposed to a bug bite.

Could Other Conditions Cause UTI Like Symptoms and a Rash?

There are other conditions that can cause UTI-like symptoms and rashes. Some of them include a vaginal yeast infection and an STI.

With a vaginal yeast infection, you may find that you are very itchy around the vagina and the vulva. You may also find that you are itchy and that you have a thick, white discharge. Small or tiny cracks in the skin may also be present, along with a burning sensation when you go to the bathroom. Pain during sex is also a common symptom.

Chlamydia is another cause that can trigger UTI-like symptoms, along with a rash. Chlamydial infections can cause pain in your lower abdomen, and you may also experience painful urination. The main symptom that can be used to distinguish chlamydia from a UTI is that a UTI does not cause any kind of vaginal or penile discharge. If you do have an STI, then you may notice a watery discharge from the penis or a strong-smelling vaginal discharge.

When to See a Doctor?

If you even suspect that you have a UTI, then you need to see a doctor about it. They will be able to give you a treatment that works for you and the symptoms that you have. Although there are some remedies you can try at home, such as drinking cranberry juice or taking an OTC medication, it is important to know that some UTIs are just too advanced and require medical intervention.

Get Help From an Online Doctor!

If you want to get help without visiting your doctor, then an online doctor is faster and more convenient. You’ll be able to access the same treatment without having to leave your home.

Sources:

Content on the DrHouse website is written by our medical content team and reviewed by qualified MDs, PhDs, NPs, and PharmDs. We follow strict content creation guidelines to ensure accurate medical information. However, this content is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For more information read our medical disclaimer.

Always consult with your physician or other qualified health providers about medical concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on what you read on this website.

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