Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common problem that affects both men and women. It occurs in the urinary system which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.
Women are said to be at a greater risk of developing an UTI than men. This is because their urethras are shorter and closer to the rectum. Other risk factors include a previous UTI infection, pregnancy, age, poor hygiene, and more.
But regardless of what the cause of the UTI is, treatment usually involves the use of an antibiotic. In this article, we will try to uncover the role of antibiotics in UTI treatment and find out whether there are other possible treatment alternatives.
Symptoms Of UTI
The urinary system is built in a way to protect harmful bacteria and microorganisms from entering our body. However, when the barrier is disrupted, bacteria may enter the urinary tract, leading to an infection.
This may lead to various symptoms, including:
- Frequent urination
- A strong urge to urinate that doesn't go away
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Cloudy urine
- Blood in the urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain, in women
Role Of Antibiotics In Treating UTI
If you have a symptomatic UTI, it is important to consult a doctor, especially if the pain and discomfort do not resolve sooner.
A short-term course of antibiotics is usually the recommended treatment for UTIs.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Ritesh Goel, Consultant Urologist, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, says, "Symptomatic urinary tract infections almost always require antibiotics. At times, injectables are also given in severe cases of UTI."
"Benefits of antibiotics include early resolution of infection and prevention of infective complications. However, it does not guarantee that infection cannot re-occur. The risks of antibiotic overuse are the development of antibiotic resistance, drug-related side effects and the risk of developing superbugs that are multidrug resistant," he adds.
In general, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the top global public health and development threats, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
An estimated 10.27 lakh global deaths in 2019 were directly attributed to bacterial AMR, whereas it contributed to 40.95 lakh deaths worldwide.
Also Read: 5 Types Of People Most At Risk Of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Can UTI Be Treated Without Antibiotics?
Given the risk of antibiotic resistance, many people look for ways to treat bacterial infections without medications. However, it is always important to consult with a doctor before taking matters into your own hands.
For those looking for alternatives for UTI treatment, Dr Goel says certain measures like genital hygiene, safe intercourse practices, and menstrual hygiene practices help reduce recurrence.
In addition, some home remedies like good hydration, including probiotics, adding citrus fruits like oranges and lemons to your diet, and taking cranberry extracts or juices are useful for infection prevention, he notes.
Bottomline
UTI is a common bacterial infection that can cause mild, moderate, or severe symptoms. Depending on the severity, healthcare providers can determine the best course of treatment for you, which can range from antibiotics to injectables. In certain cases, drinking plenty of water, resting, avoiding sugary, carbonated drinks, and practicing good hygiene can also alleviate symptoms and even prevent an infection. It is important that you listen to your body and take the necessary measures to free yourself of the discomfort.