FAQ
Questions and Answers
A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Women are at a greater risk of having UTI than men due to having a shorter urethra. The opening to the urethra for women is also closer to the rectum, where most of the UTI causing bacteria live.
A UTI develops when bacteria (E. Coli) living in the genital and anal areas enters the urinary tract through the urethra and causes an infection.
If a UTI is left untreated, serious complications occur. Some of these include recurrent infections and permanent kidney damage. There is also an increased risk of delivering premature infants for pregnant women. Men may also see urethral narrowing.
It is possible that a mild infection will go away on its own but it is way too risky. Leaving a UTI alone could worsen the condition or lead to complications. It is always advised to speak with a doctor and get proper treatment for your UTI.
UTIs that are left untreated can continue to spread into the kidneys. Kidney infections can lead to serious complications like kidney damage or sepsis, a life threatening condition. See a doctor and get treated as early as possible when you’re experiencing any UTI symptoms.
Antibiotics are the main treatment for a UTI but may take a few days to provide relief. In the meantime, these are a few ways to lessen discomfort while taking antibiotics. Drink plenty of water, avoid caffeine, alcohol, and soft drinks, use a heating pad to warm your abdomen, and completely empty your bladder before bed.
It is recommended to take prescribed antibiotics to treat a UTI, but drinking plenty of water can assist in flushing out the infection.
A UTI is diagnosed by analyzing a urine sample, checking for microbes of bacteria. The doctor will also do a urine culture to identify the cause of infection which helps in choosing the right treatment.
Drinking plenty of fluids, wiping front to back after urinating or after a bowel movement, urinating before and after sex, avoiding holding your pee, and avoiding using irritating feminine products are all ways of reducing your chances of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Antibiotics for UTIs take effect depending on the severity of the infection and type of treatment prescribed. Some cases could take about 1 to 2 days or for more severe cases, it could take 14 days or more to see improvement.