How To Get Rid Of A UTI

By: Tal Boldo

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Need to find out how to get rid of a UTI? First, you’ll need to see a doctor who will send you for a urine test, most likely in his office or clinic. If white blood cells are found in your urine this will confirm that your body is trying to get rid of a UTI. Your doctor will then prescribe antibiotics depending on your symptoms and health history. In addition to taking antibiotics to get rid of your UTI, your doctor can prescribe pain medication to help you through the first uncomfortable days. Here’s everything you need to know about getting rid of a UTI quickly and as painlessly as possible.

  1. Get a urine test. Before your doctor can help you get rid of a UTI he must be sure that your symptoms are the result of an infection and not kidney stones. Most doctor’s offices have an in-house lab where your urine can be analyzed on the spot for signs of antibodies fighting an infection. You’ll find everything you need in the office restroom. First wipe your genitals with a sanitary cloth to eliminate bacteria present on your skin. Next, urinate a little into the toilet, then stop and urinate into the urine test cup. About an inch of urine is all that’s needed. Write your last name on the lid and give your urine test cup to the nurse.
  2. Consult with a doctor. If you urine test comes back positive for a UTI, your doctor will recommend a course of antibiotics. If you have a sensitive stomach or a bad experience with antibiotics in the past, don’t be shy about letting your doctor know. To get rid of a UTI quickly and safely, you must take antibiotics but your doctor can prescribe a short term medication for sensitive stomachs. If you can only afford the cheapest medication, again tell your doctor and he will prescribe a medication that has been on the market for a long time and has cheap generic alternatives.
  3. Avoid herbal remedies. If you want to get rid of a UTI quickly then herbal remedies are not the answer for you. Though health stores will carry herbs that are reputed to treat and cure UTI, herbs work far more slowly than antibiotics. The longer you wait before starting to take antibiotics, the more difficult it will be to get rid of your UTI because more bacteria will spread through your urinary tract and bladder.
  4. How to get rid of UTI pain. If your UTI symptoms include lower abdominal pain or pain while urinating, your doctor can prescribe pain medication for the first few days of healing. UTI pain medication will numb the bladder and urethra, where the urine leaves your body. This will reduce your need to urinate often and will stop the pain and burning associated with urinary tract infections.
  5. The dangers of a UTI. Getting rid of a UTI is easy if you begin treatment early. If you wait you risk letting bacteria spread through your urinary tract up to your kidneys. Untreated, a UTI can cause kidney damage and extreme lower back pain. Then to get rid of a UTI you will need to be hospitalized and receive injections of antibiotics directly into your kidneys, as well as receive further treatment intravenously.
  6. How to get rid of recurring UTI. If you keep getting urinary tract infections every few months, let your doctor know. Some people are more susceptible to getting UTI’s. In others, an old infection is never fully cured. Your doctor will be able to determine if you need different antibiotics or if you will benefit from taking antibiotics on a regular basis.

Urinary tract infections occur in men, women and children. To get rid of a UTI be sure to see your doctor early and follow up with him if your symptoms do not improve within 2 days. Some bacteria have grown resistant to certain antibiotics. You may need to switch medications to fully get rid of your UTI.

Posted on: Oct. 26, 2010