Medically reviewed
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections that affect the urinary tract. Though they can be painful, most UTIs are not serious and can be easily treated with antibiotics. In order to obtain a prescription for antibiotics, you must first speak with a medical provider. Seeking treatment early will help to resolve your symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading.
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Get StartedWhen to See a Doctor for a UTI
UTIs require treatment with a prescription antibiotic medication, so it’s a good idea to speak with a medical provider when symptoms of a UTI arise. They can rule out other possible infections that can cause symptoms similar to that of a UTI.
Causes of a UTI
In most cases, UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra. There are several ways through which bacteria can enter the urethra, but sex is a common risk factor for UTIs. This is because the friction that occurs during sexual intercourse can promote bacterial migration in the urinary tract. Other risk factors for UTIs include:
- Age: Older individuals can be more susceptible to UTIs because they’re more likely to have trouble emptying their bladder. Menopause can also increase the risk of developing a UTI.
- Bowel movement habits: People with bowel incontinence or diarrhea are more likely to develop UTIs.
- Uncontrolled diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can make it difficult for the body’s immune system to fight off infection, including UTIs.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a UTI typically involve the urinary tract, but they can also affect the stomach and midsection. The most common signs of a UTI are:
- Pain, discomfort, or a burning sensation while urinating
- An intense, persistent, and frequent urge to urinate
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Cloud-colored urine
- Blood in the urine
- Strong or unpleasant-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain (in people with vaginas)
- Pain in the side, lower abdomen, or back
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Fever
Can a UTI Go Away Without Antibiotics?
Though some mild UTIs may go away on their own without antibiotic treatment, delaying treatment for your symptoms can allow the infection to spread. This can lead to more serious health concerns. If you have concerns about taking antibiotics, talk with your medical provider about your options. It’s also important to note that because of antibiotic resistance, some UTIs may not respond to antibiotic treatment.
Medical Treatment for UTI
Antibiotics are the first-line treatment for UTIs. In most cases, your provider will prescribe a course of antibiotics for 3-7 days depending on your symptoms, previous infections, and other factors. Though you may feel better within 2-4 days, take the full course of antibiotics as directed by your provider.
Risks of Untreated UTI
When diagnosed and treated, a UTI is not life-threatening. However, if left untreated, a UTI can spread to the kidneys, which is a more serious health condition and warrants immediate medical attention. When a UTI spreads to the kidneys, treatment may require intravenous antibiotics.
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Get StartedPrevention
There are several things you can do to help prevent a UTI. Common prevention strategies include:
- Drink plenty of water
- Urinate regularly
- Don’t apply douches, soaps, or other irritants to your genital area
- Urinate before and after sexual activity
- Wipe from front to back after a bowel movement
- Wear cotton-based underwear
How K Health Can Help
Did you know you can get affordable UTI treatment online with K Health? Check your symptoms, explore conditions and treatments, and if needed, text with a healthcare provider in minutes. K Health’s AI-powered app is based on 20 years of clinical data.
Frequently Asked Questions
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