Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections in women. About 50–70% of women will have a UTI sometimes during their lifetime, of which 20–30% will have a recurrent UTI, as per research published in the American Society for Microbiology.
While women are at a greater risk of contracting a UTI, men can develop it too, with more painful symptoms. The most common mistake people usually make is leaving the infection untreated, thinking that it will go away on its own. But should that be the right course of action? We spoke to Dr Tejal Deshmukh, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune, who sheds light on the dangers of doing so.
Also Read: How To Recognise And Treat A Urinary Tract Infection
Can UTI Go Away On Its Own?
In about 15-20% of cases, UTI may resolve on its own, says Dr Deshmukh. But this is only if the infection is mild or if a person does not have any past history of UTI. The UTI symptoms usually need proper treatment to avoid further complications and recurrence, the doctor adds.
Tracking your symptoms can give you an idea of the severity of your infection. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Sudden urge to urinate even if you just went
- Feeling unable to empty the bladder fully
- Cloudy urine
- Foul-smelling urine
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
Health Risks Of Leaving UTI Untreated
Most UTIs occur in the lower urinary tracts, such as the urethra and bladder. With prompt treatment, they usually do not cause any further complications. However, if left untreated, it can result in serious health issues.
Dr Deshmukh says, "Untreated UTI acutely irritates the lower urinary tract and causes symptoms like increased urinary frequency, urgency of urine, dysuria, suprapubic discomfort, and increased incontinence. In cases of severe infection, it may ascend to the kidneys and give rise to acute pyelonephritis (kidney infection), which may cause high-grade fever, nausea, vomiting, and flank pain."
According to the Urology Care Foundation, about 1 in every 30 cases of a UTI leads to a kidney infection.
It is also important to note that if left untreated, a UTI can also progress to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's immune system has an intense reaction to an infection. As per StatPearls Publishing, UTIs are among the most common presenting causes of sepsis in hospitals.
Also Read: Try These 4 Natural Ways To Treat Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
The Risk Of Recurrence
Recurrent UTIs can be defined as two or more acute UTIs within six months or three in a year.
According to StatPearls Publishing, more than half of all women will experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point in their lives. The issue doesn't always stop there; for roughly a quarter of women, the UTI will come back within six months of getting treated for the first one.
Not getting proper treatment and waiting for it to clear away on its own is a common risk factor for recurrent UTIs.
How To Approach It Effectively
The best thing to do for a UTI is to see a healthcare provider immediately, says Dr Deshmukh. Here’s what you can expect thereon:
- Your doctor will prescribe a few tests, like a routine urine examination or urine culture.
- Depending on the symptoms, your doctor will then treat you appropriately to provide complete relief and prevent recurrent infections.
- Treatment usually consists of cranberry supplements, a urinary alkalizer, and appropriate antibiotics if required.
- Always ensure to take a complete course of medicine to avoid recurrence.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Here are some of the ways to prevent UTIs:
- Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria out of your urinary system.
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Urinate before and after sexual activity.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear.
- Avoid tight-fitting underwear or pants to keep the genital area dry.
- Avoid using feminine hygiene products, like sprays and douches, which are scented.
- Don't hold urine in for extended periods.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Conclusion
UTIs should not be left untreated, regardless of whether they're mild or severe. It is important to consult a doctor to determine the course of treatment. Failing to do so can lead to severe complications and may compromise overall health. In fact, untreated UTIs may cause more serious conditions, such as kidney infections or sepsis. Ensure that you recognise symptoms early and seek prompt medical attention to receive appropriate treatment, typically antibiotics. Again, consulting a doctor is extremely crucial.