Treatment of urinary tract infection is usually carried out with antibiotics. Depending on the severity of the infection and the patient’s condition, the doctor prescribes an appropriate antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics destroy the bacteria that cause the infection, preventing the spread of the infection and the occurrence of complications. During the course of treatment, patients should usually take antibiotics regularly and complete all medications. However, in the treatment of urinary tract infections, some home remedies may be effective in addition to antibiotics. While drinking plenty of water helps to clean the urinary tract, it is important to meet the need to urinate without any problems. In addition, paying attention to hygiene rules and keeping the genital area clean can reduce the risk of infection. With early diagnosis and the right treatment, rapid recovery from the infection is possible. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
What happens if a urinary tract infection is not treated?
Urinary tract infection can cause serious health problems if left untreated. A non-functioning urinary tract infection can lead to the following complications:
- Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): If the urinary tract infection spreads to the kidneys, it can develop into a kidney infection called pyelonephritis. This condition manifests itself with symptoms such as severe back pain, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. If pyelonephritis is not treated, it can lead to serious health problems such as kidney damage, kidney failure or blood poisoning.
- Urinary Tract Obstruction: An untreated urinary tract infection can cause a blockage in the urinary tract. This blockage blocks the normal flow of urine and can cause it to build up in the urinary tract. This increases the risk of urine flowing backwards into the kidneys (reflux) and damage to the kidneys.
- Urine Stones: Chronic urinary tract infections can contribute to the formation of stones in the urinary tract. Urinary stones can lead to obstruction, pain and risk of infection in the urinary tract.
- Sepsis: Left untreated, a urinary tract infection can spread throughout the body and lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis. Sepsis is an extreme response of infection spreading throughout the body and requires prompt medical attention.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional and seek appropriate treatment when symptoms of a urinary tract infection appear or are suspected. Early diagnosis and treatment helps prevent such complications and ensures rapid recovery from the disease.
Does urinary tract infection go away on its own?
Urinary tract infections usually do not go away on their own and require treatment. Bacterial infections occur mostly as a result of the growth and multiplication of bacteria that settle along the urinary tract. In these infections, the body cannot neutralize the bacteria or clear the infection on its own. Many mild urinary tract infections can help relieve symptoms by taking plenty of fluids and paying attention to urinary tract hygiene. However, these methods do not completely cure the infection and only help to temporarily reduce the symptoms. Untreated infections can spread, exacerbate and lead to complications.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it is important to consult a healthcare professional and seek appropriate treatment. Your doctor will usually prescribe a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics treat the infection, providing rapid regression of symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. In short, urinary tract infections usually do not go away on their own and require appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment allows the infection to heal quickly and prevents possible complications.
How is urinary tract infection treated?
Treatment of urinary tract infection is usually carried out with the use of antibiotics. It is important to consult a healthcare professional when you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection. The doctor will evaluate your symptoms, ask about your health history, and perform a physical exam. As a result of the examination, a urine test can be done. For the treatment of urinary tract infection proceeds as follows:
- Once the urinary tract infection is confirmed to be of bacterial origin, the doctor will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic. Antibiotics prevent the spread of infection by killing the bacteria that cause the infection. The duration of treatment and the dose of the drug will be determined by the doctor. It is important that antibiotics are used regularly and fully.
- Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria in the urinary tract and help urine pass more smoothly. Consumption of water cleans the urinary tract and increases the frequency of urination.
- It is important to pay attention to hygienic measures to reduce the risk of infection in the urinary tract. In order to clean the genital area after toilet, precautions such as wiping from front to back, choosing cotton underwear, and changing sanitary pads frequently should be taken.
- It is important to monitor whether symptoms improve during the treatment process. If symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.
It is important to carefully follow and complete your doctor’s recommendations during the treatment process. The regular use of the drug and the completion of the treatment period allow the infection to be treated effectively.
What causes urinary tract infection?
Urinary tract infections can lead to various complications if left untreated. Here are the possible complications of a urinary tract infection:
- Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): A urinary tract infection can cause a kidney infection called pyelonephritis if bacteria reach the kidneys. Pyelonephritis is manifested by symptoms such as severe back pain, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. This can lead to kidney damage, kidney failure, or blood poisoning.
- Urinary Tract Obstruction: Untreated urinary tract infections can cause a blockage in the urinary tract. This blockage blocks the flow of urine and can cause urine to flow backwards (reflux) into the kidneys. The risk of infection in the kidneys increases and kidney damage may develop.
- Urine Stones: Chronic urinary tract infections can contribute to the formation of stones in the urinary tract. Urinary stones can cause obstruction in the urinary tract, making urine flow more difficult and increasing the risk of infection.
- Sepsis: Untreated urinary tract infections can spread to the bloodstream and lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis. Sepsis is an extreme response to the spreading infection in the body and can cause serious complications such as organ failure, shock, and disruption of vital functions.
- Recurrent Infections: In some people, urinary tract infections may recur. Recurrent infections may occur due to factors such as underlying urinary tract anatomical abnormalities, immune system problems, or the presence of treatment-resistant bacterial strains.
What is good for urinary tract infection?
The most effective way to treat urinary tract infection is to apply the antibiotic treatment recommended by the doctor. However, there are some home remedies to help relieve symptoms and prevent the spread of infection. Here are some methods that can help relieve urinary tract infection symptoms:
- Drinking plenty of water cleans the urinary tract and helps to flush out bacteria by diluting the urine. Make sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
- A warm water bath can provide relief in the urinary tract and help relieve symptoms.
- To clean your genital area after the toilet, be sure to wipe from front to back. Opt for cotton underwear and change sanitary pads frequently. This way you can reduce the risk of spreading bacteria.
- In consultation with your doctor, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers or urinary tract relief medications to relieve pain. However, always consult your doctor before using any medication.
- Applying a hot pack or hot compress to the lower abdomen can relieve pain and provide relief. However, you should avoid extreme temperatures and protect your skin from burning.
These methods can relieve symptoms and provide relief, but they do not completely cure the infection. If urinary tract infection symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor will ensure that the infection is treated effectively by making the correct diagnosis and prescribing the appropriate treatment.