How to Care for UTI Symptoms at Home

How to Care for UTI Symptoms at Home
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Urinary tract infections, UTIs, are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Symptoms of UTI include a frequent urge to urinate, a painful, burning sensation when urinating and fatigue. UTIs require proper treatment to reduce serious complications. Antibiotics are the main treatment for UTIs; however, certain remedies can be done at home to minimize uncomfortable symptoms until the infection is eliminated.

Step 1

Take antibiotics and other medications prescribed by your doctor. Signs and symptoms of UTIs usually disappear within one to two days; however, antibiotics may be prescribed for a longer period of time. It is important to finish the prescription to ensure that the infection is completely eliminated.

Step 2

Drink enough water to dilute your urine and flush out the bacteria that is causing a UTI.

Step 3

Avoid drinking coffee, citrus drinks, soft drinks and alcohol. These drinks can irritate the bladder and cause more rination urgency and frequency.

Step 4

Apply a heating pad to your abdomen to help reduce the discomfort caused by a UTI.

Step 5

Wipe front to back after going to the restroom to prevent transferring bacteria from the anus to the urethra.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean drinking water
  • Heating pad
  • Antibiotics prescribed by physician

References

Article reviewed by GayleZorrilla Last updated on: Sep 3, 2010

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