Will a UTI go away without treatment?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most frequently treated conditions by healthcare providers. These infections can cause discomfort and may lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. Many people wonder whether a UTI can resolve on its own without medical intervention, or if antibiotics or other treatments are necessary to fully recover. 

We’ll explore whether UTIs can go away on their own, and when it’s essential to seek medical attention.

How can you tell if you have a UTI?

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, they may be caused by a urinary tract infection:

• Pain or burning when urinating
• Feel the need to urinate often, but do not have a full bladder
• Pain in your lower belly
• Urine is cloudy, looks pink or red, or has a foul odor
• Pain under your ribs on one side of the back
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting

If you think you have an infection and experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

• Fever, nausea and vomiting
• Pain under your ribs in one side of the back

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above and one of these conditions applies to you, seek medical attention right away:

• You have diabetes or kidney problems
• You have a weak immune system
• You are older than 65
• You are pregnant

Can a UTI go away on its own?

Sometimes, a UTI without symptoms, called asymptomatic bacteriuria, can go away without treatment. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms like burning, pain, or frequent urination, it’s unlikely to improve on its own.

If you have these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about getting a urine test near you and finding the right treatment. In the meantime, drinking plenty of fluids can help flush out the bacteria, and over-the-counter medications may help relieve discomfort.

Related: How to Tell if You’re Not Drinking Enough Water

Can you treat UTI without antibiotics

Not all UTIs require antibiotics. Some people may have bacteria in their bladder without any symptoms, known as asymptomatic bacteriuria, which usually doesn’t need treatment because it doesn’t cause harm.

However, certain people, such as those who are pregnant, those scheduled for urologic surgery, or those with weakened immune systems, may need treatment. When UTI symptoms are present, antibiotics are often necessary to clear the infection.

What Happens if a UTI is Left Untreated?

If a urinary tract infection (UTI) is not treated, it can turn into a more serious infection. A bladder infection might spread to the kidneys or prostate, which can be dangerous as these infections can reach the bloodstream and lead to sepsis.

Signs of a more severe infection include:

• Pain or discomfort in the side (flank) or kidneys
• Fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion
• Dizziness or falls

While some UTIs may clear up on their own, this is rare, and the risk of complications from leaving it untreated is high. The quickest way to recover is to see a healthcare provider. They will assess the infection, determine its severity, and offer the right treatment, which may include antibiotics if needed.

The UTI and Back Pain Connection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) usually affects the bladder and urethra, which are part of the lower urinary tract. You might be wondering if a UTI can cause back pain. In most cases, lower UTIs don’t lead to back pain. However, if the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can cause discomfort in your lower back. A kidney infection is more serious and needs quick medical treatment to avoid any serious health problems.

You Can Go to an Urgent Care Center for UTI Treatment

If you have a UTI, you can go to an urgent care center for treatment. While it’s great to have a trusted relationship with your primary care doctor or OB/GYN, sometimes it can be hard to schedule an appointment quickly, especially when symptoms show up outside of regular office hours.

Instead of waiting, you can visit urgent care, like DOC-AID Urgent Care, for fast and convenient UTI treatment. With extended hours and same-day walk-ins, you can easily get the care and relief you need from a healthcare professional.