What does a urinary tract infection affect?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) specifically affects the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. This infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, often leading to symptoms such as a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensation during urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. The urinary tract is specialized for the excretion and transportation of urine, making it the primary area impacted by such infections.

The other options refer to completely different systems within the body. The heart is part of the circulatory system, the digestive system processes food and nutrient absorption, and the respiratory system is involved in gas exchange. Therefore, these options do not relate to the role or effects of a urinary tract infection. Understanding that UTIs specifically target the structures involved in urine production and excretion is essential for recognizing how and where these infections occur.