A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection that occurs in the urinary system. It can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent in women. It affects one in two Australian women and one in 20 men in their lifetime. However, can a UTI go away on its own? Let’s find out.
What is UTI?
A UTI is an infection that can take place in any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, as well as prostate in men. UTIs can be classified into 2 major categories: uncomplicated (often referred to as cystitis), and complicated (including pyelonephritis, catheter-associated UTIs, UTIs during pregnancy, and UTIs associated with kidney stones). It is typically caused by bacteria such as E.coli, which enters the urinary tract through the urethra. Common symptoms of a UTI include frequent urination, urgency to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, strong-smelling urine, fever, and pain in the lower abdomen.
Can a UTI go away on its own?
The simple answer to this question is that it depends on the severity of the symptoms. Not all UTIs require antibiotics. Some people may have bacteria in their bladders, but may not observe any symptoms. This is known as asymptomatic bacteriuria and usually no treatment is required as the bacteria is not causing any problem. But then even with asymptomatic bacteriuria, pregnant women and people with weak immune systems may still require treatment.
If the UTI symptoms are mild, it is advisable to drink plenty of fluids and see whether it resolves in a day or two. If it doesn’t, consult with a doctor and get the treatment started as soon as possible. Also, if you observe symptoms like fever, nausea, blood in urine, vomiting, severe pain while urinating or a significant change in your urine colour it is essential to seek medical attention.
How can you prevent UTIs in the future?
There are numerous ways to prevent UTIs in the future. Let’s check them out.
- Keep yourself hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps the body to make urine which flushes bacteria out of the urinary tract.
- Urinate frequently: Be sure not to hold your urine for too long and always try to empty your bladder when you urinate. It helps to eliminate the bacteria from the bladder and urethra.
- Maintain hygiene: It is important to wipe the genital area from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Urinate after intercourse: It is better to urinate after intercourse as it helps to get rid of the bacteria that might have entered the urinary tract during intercourse.
- Wear breathable undergarments: Try and wear comfortable cotton underwear which allows air to flow and keeps your genital area dry and clean.
- Avoid harsh products: Keep away from using harsh soaps or hygiene sprays in the genital area.
- Change your absorbents regularly: Be sure to change the diapers, pads, or tampons used in the genital area as soon as they are soiled.
However, if you are regularly experiencing UTIs, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional for treatment.
What’s the Difference: Bladder Infection vs. UTI?
A bladder infection particularly indicates an infection that primarily affects the bladder, which is a part of the urinary tract. It happens when bacteria enter the bladder and start multiplying, resulting in irritation and inflammation. Bladder infection symptoms may include frequent urination, burning sensation while urinating, smelly urine, and abdominal aches.
On the other hand, a UTI is a much wider term that includes infections anywhere in the urinary tract. It can be in the bladder, ureters, kidneys, or urethra, and the prostate in men. UTIs can affect any part of the urinary system and may have different symptoms depending on the site of the infection.
Hence, a bladder infection is a definite type of UTI that impacts only the bladder, whereas UTI refers to infections anywhere in the urinary tract.
What Happens to an Untreated Urinary Tract Infection?
Urinary tract infection if not treated, can spread to the kidneys and eventually lead to kidney damage. Sometimes the bacteria can even spread beyond the urinary tract and cause infection in the blood and other body tissues. UTI symptoms may aggravate over time and can lead to extreme irritation and pain. Therefore, it is imperative to seek medical treatment if you feel you are suffering from a UTI.
When to consult a doctor?
It is advisable to consult a doctor for UTI treatment if you have symptoms like recurrent and painful urination, cloudy or smelly urine, abdominal pain, or fever. It is extremely important to seek medical advice immediately to receive suitable treatment and prevent the infection from getting worse. Again, if you have frequent UTIs or if you are pregnant, you should consult a doctor.
Can telehealth doctors help with UTI?
If you think you have a UTI, telehealth doctors can offer a convenient option for diagnosis and treatment. They can analyse your symptoms and advise appropriate medication or get a urine test done. Based on their evaluations, they can prescribe the best course of treatment to terminate infection and avoid complications. If you are suffering from some of the UTI symptoms, head here for a quick telehealth consult within minutes.
To conclude, UTI is a common infection that can be treated with prompt action and preventive measures. It is recommended that you consult a qualified healthcare provider as soon as you detect it.
Reference
- Urinary tract infections (UTI)- Reference Link
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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