How to Treat a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are more common in women than in men, and they can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Sexual activity
- Using a diaphragm or cervical cap for birth control
- Having a weakened immune system
- Having diabetes
- Being pregnant
- Having a history of UTIs
Symptoms of a UTI can include:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Frequent urination
- Urgent urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
If you think you may have a UTI, it’s important to see a doctor right away. UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, and early treatment can help to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.
Treatment Options for UTIs
The most common treatment for a UTI is antibiotics. Antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that cause the infection. The type of antibiotic that your doctor prescribes will depend on the type of bacteria that is causing your infection.
In most cases, you will need to take antibiotics for 3 to 7 days. It’s important to take all of the antibiotics that your doctor prescribes, even if you start to feel better. If you stop taking the antibiotics too early, the infection could come back.
In some cases, your doctor may also recommend that you take pain relievers or antispasmodics to help relieve your symptoms.
Home Remedies for UTIs
In addition to antibiotics, there are a number of home remedies that can help to relieve the symptoms of a UTI. These remedies include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water and cranberry juice
- Urinating frequently
- Applying a warm compress to your lower abdomen
- Taking a sitz bath
- Eating yogurt or taking probiotics
Preventing UTIs
There are a number of things you can do to help prevent UTIs, including:
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water
- Urinating frequently
- Wiping from front to back after using the toilet
- Changing your underwear daily
- Avoiding using harsh soaps or douches
- Using a condom during sexual activity
FAQs
What is the difference between a UTI and a yeast infection?
A UTI is a bacterial infection of the urinary system, while a yeast infection is a fungal infection of the vagina. Symptoms of a UTI include burning or pain during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. Symptoms of a yeast infection include itching, burning, and redness in the vagina.
Can UTIs be cured?
Yes, UTIs can be cured with antibiotics. It’s important to take all of the antibiotics that your doctor prescribes, even if you start to feel better. If you stop taking the antibiotics too early, the infection could come back.
Are UTIs contagious?
No, UTIs are not contagious. However, they can be spread from one person to another through sexual activity.
What are the complications of UTIs?
If left untreated, UTIs can spread to the kidneys and cause serious health problems, such as kidney damage and sepsis.
When should I see a doctor for a UTI?
You should see a doctor for a UTI if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Frequent urination
- Urgent urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
