A UTI can be painful and uncomfortable, but it is something that can be treated easily and can go away just as quickly as it starts. Those who are prone to UTIs or may have one for the first time will want to understand how to tell if this is what’s bothering them, as well as what to do to feel better as quickly as possible.
Those who have a UTI for the first time may worry about things like, are utis contagious or whether they have to see a doctor to get it to go away. The following can help answer many questions about UTIs.
Know the Signs and Symptoms
Spotting early symptoms of a UTI can help prevent them from getting worse, as they allow the person to take steps to feel better right away. The most common symptoms include feeling a burning sensation when using the bathroom, having to go to the bathroom more frequently, or other symptoms like feeling off or too tired. At the first sign of symptoms, it’s important to take steps to feel better.
Stay Hydrated
It is important to stay hydrated, even though that does mean having to use the bathroom more frequently. Proper hydration helps to flush out the UTI, enabling the person to feel better faster. Drink plenty of water and other liquids throughout the day, but avoid caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks as much as possible, as they can make the UTI worse.
Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
It is a good idea to avoid food and drinks that may cause the UTI to be worse. This can include drinks mentioned above as well as spicy foods, citrus, or anything else that may cause irritation. It is better to stick with foods that are mild or bland while recovering. As soon as the UTI is gone, it’s possible to get back to the person’s typical diet.
Antibiotics May Be Needed
If a UTI is severe or doesn’t go away on its own, antibiotics may be needed. A UTI is a bacterial infection, so antibiotics can help get rid of it much faster. It is important to take the full dose of antibiotics when prescribed to prevent the UTI from coming back again or getting worse. Talk to a doctor to get the right antibiotics for the UTI and to make sure they’ll be as effective as possible.
Can You Give Someone a UTI?
A common concern people may have when they have a UTI is whether they can pass it to someone else. It is safe to be around other people when someone has a UTI, as it is not contagious. Being in close contact with others does not cause the UTI to spread, so it is safe to do things like go swimming to hang out with friends while recovering from a UTI.
If you may have a UTI, it’s a good idea to follow the tips here to recover as quickly as possible so you start to feel better. If the UTI gets worse or doesn’t go away on its own within a few days, it is a good idea to speak with your doctor. They may need to write a prescription to help get rid of the UTI faster for you, and can provide information on how to prevent them in the future.
