When you have a urinary tract infection, it can cause discomfort and can be dangerous if left untreated. However, even after you have received treatment, it is possible to experience lingering symptoms. Learn more about how to handle these symptoms if they persist after beginning medication.
What is a UTI?
A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system, most commonly in the bladder and urethra. Women are more likely to develop UTIs due to a shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to easily reach the bladder. Symptoms of UTIs can include a strong urge to urinate, burning while urinating, blood in the urine, strong-smelling or cloudy urine, pelvic pain, fatigue, and fever. If left untreated, UTIs can spread to the kidneys and cause serious complications.
UTIs are classified into three types, each affecting a different part of the urinary system. Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, characterized by discharge and burning sensation during urination. Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, causing painful and frequent urination, as well as cloudy urine. Pyelonephritis is inflammation of the kidneys caused by infection, resulting in symptoms such as fever, chills, back pain, and nausea.
Treatments for UTI
When a urinary tract infection (UTI) is diagnosed, the usual course of treatment is antibiotics. The specific antibiotic prescribed will depend on the individual's health and the type of bacteria found in their urine sample. Common antibiotics prescribed for UTIs include trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin and cephalexin ceftriaxone. Symptoms of UTI usually decrease within the first few days of taking antibiotics, but it is important to finish the full course of treatment, which typically lasts one week. Pain medication may also be prescribed to alleviate discomfort. It is important to note that once a person has had a UTI, their risk of developing another one increases, and in some cases, long-term treatment with antibiotics or other measures may be necessary.
Can UTI symptoms linger after antibiotics?
It is crucial to continue taking the entire prescribed dosage of antibiotics for a UTI, regardless of any improvement in symptoms, to ensure the complete elimination of the bacteria causing the infection. Failure to do so may result in antibiotic resistance and persistent symptoms. Monitoring for changes in symptoms after taking antibiotics is essential to confirm the effectiveness of the treatment.
When do the symptoms disappear?
It may take a few days to a week for a UTI to fully clear up after starting antibiotics. Symptoms such as a low-grade fever or lower back pain may take longer to improve. Your doctor will likely prescribe a treatment plan for 3-14 days. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure that the infection is completely eliminated.
When a UTI is not responding to antibiotics
If you are experiencing persistent or new symptoms of a UTI after starting antibiotics, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This could mean that the infection is not responding to treatment and may lead to serious complications if left untreated, particularly for pregnant women. Ignoring a UTI can result in permanent damage to the kidneys and in some cases can even become life-threatening if bacteria enters the bloodstream and causes sepsis.
The takeaway
It is important to be aware of the symptoms of UTIs, especially for women who are more susceptible to these infections. While antibiotics can help alleviate symptoms, it is not uncommon for them to persist even after treatment. That is why it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions and complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed. If symptoms persist or new ones appear, it is important to seek medical attention for further treatment.
