The urinary tract is the area within the human body that makes, stores and eliminates urine through a system of integrated organs.  When a person experiences a urinary tract infection, in most cases, the infection is occurring with the bladder.  If treated swiftly, bladder infections can be cured in a relatively short period of time; if left untreated, the infection could spread and infect the kidneys which could result in more serious symptoms.  Women tend to experience urinary tract infections more often then men do and the cause is generally due to a bacterium that has entered the urethra.  Children can also get urinary tract infections.  Antibiotics are typically prescribed and are generally successful in clearing the condition.