Which statement best describes the cardinal symptoms of a lower urinary tract infection?

• A. Fever and flank pain
• B. Polyuria and polydipsia
• C. Frequency, urgency, burning
• D. Hematuria only

Answer: (C)

The key idea is irritative voiding symptoms from bladder involvement. A lower urinary tract infection typically causes frequency (urinating more often), urgency (a sudden need to void), and dysuria (burning or painful urination). This combination reflects inflammation of the bladder mucosa and is the most characteristic set of signs for LUTI. Fever and flank pain suggest involvement higher up the urinary tract (like the kidneys) or a systemic infection, not the classic lower tract picture. Polyuria and polydipsia are metabolic signs more associated with diabetes, not LUTI. Hematuria can occur with UTIs but isn’t the defining trio of symptoms.