Urinary Tract Infection

The common symptoms include a burning or stinging sensation when urinating, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and the need to urinate more often than usual. You may also feel lower abdominal pain or pressure. In more severe cases, symptoms can include fever, back pain, or blood in the urine.

UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra and multiplying in the bladder. Factors such as poor hygiene, dehydration, sexual activity, or holding in urine for too long can increase the risk. Women are more likely to get UTIs due to their shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics that target the bacteria causing the infection. The common options include Nitrofurantoin MR capsules or Trimethoprim tablets, which are prescribed depending on the type and severity of the infection. It’s important to complete the full course, even if symptoms improve early.

With treatment, most mild UTIs clear up within three to seven days. Without antibiotics, symptoms may persist for longer or worsen over time. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding irritants like caffeine can help speed up recovery.

Some very mild UTIs may resolve without antibiotics if your immune system fights off the bacteria. However, this isn’t guaranteed, and delaying treatment can allow the infection to worsen or spread to the kidneys. It’s always safest to seek medical advice and begin treatment promptly.

Avoid delaying urination, as holding in urine allows bacteria to multiply. It’s also best to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can irritate the bladder. Don’t stop antibiotic treatment early, even if you start to feel better.

Untreated UTIs can spread from the bladder to the kidneys, leading to more serious infections. Dehydration, poor hygiene, and not completing a prescribed antibiotic course can also cause symptoms to persist or worsen. If you experience fever, back pain, or nausea, seek medical attention immediately.

Pregnant women with a UTI should always consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication. Certain antibiotics are considered safe during pregnancy, but others should be avoided. Prompt treatment is important, as untreated infections can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.

UTI discomfort can feel worse at night because urine becomes more concentrated when you drink less. Lying down can also make pelvic pressure more noticeable. Drinking water throughout the day and before bed can help reduce irritation and flush bacteria out of the bladder.

Try to empty your bladder right before bed and stay hydrated during the day. Wearing loose cotton underwear and using a hot water bottle on your lower abdomen may ease discomfort. Avoid caffeine or alcohol in the evening, as they can worsen bladder irritation.

Conditions such as vaginal infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or interstitial cystitis can cause similar symptoms to a UTI. Sometimes, irritation from soaps or hygiene products may mimic UTI pain. If symptoms persist despite treatment, speak to a healthcare professional for further investigation.

Leaving a UTI untreated can allow the infection to spread to the kidneys, causing more serious health issues. Persistent infections can lead to long-term bladder or kidney problems. It’s best to start treatment as soon as possible to avoid complications.

If you develop fever, chills, back or side pain, or nausea, your UTI may be spreading to the kidneys. Persistent pain when urinating or visible blood in the urine are also warning signs. You should seek medical attention straight away if your symptoms worsen or do not improve after starting antibiotics.