Will a UTI go away on its own?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are uncomfortable conditions, causing pain and burning when you urinate and an increased need to pee.

Minor, mild UTIs may go away on their own, especially if you increase your hydration. However, most UTIs will need treatment with antibiotics to fully get rid of the infection and prevent complications.

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When do UTIs need treatment?

Around 20% of uncomplicated UTIs will go away without treatment, especially with increased hydration. However, this means that the remaining 80% will need treatment with antibiotics.

Untreated UTIs may lead your condition to worsen, potentially leading to kidney infections, kidney damage, or sepsis. Seek medical attention right away if you have the following symptoms alongside a UTI:

• fever and chills
• nausea
• vomiting
• severe abdominal or back pain
• confusion
• dizziness

How are UTIs treated?

UTIs are treated with antibiotics. Some of the most common antibiotics for UTIs include:

• amoxicillin clavulanate (Augmentin)
• ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)
• trimethoprim (Proloprim)
• nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)
• sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim)

Antibiotics get to work very quickly for UTIs. Typically, the infection clears up before the end of the course of antibiotics, within about 2 to 4 days, and you should notice your symptoms disappearing. However, you must make sure to finish the entire course of antibiotics to prevent complications or the infection returning.

Online care services, including Optum Perks Online Care, may make getting treatment easier. With these services, you can submit an online form answering a few questions about your symptoms, and a US-licensed healthcare professional will respond soon after to prescribe a treatment plan.

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