How to Get Rid of a UTI Fast

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common bladder infection. Though unpleasant, many UTIs will clear up on their own. Still, many experts recommend treating them to prevent the infection from spreading into the kidneys and bloodstream.

A doctor will prescribe antibiotics, but you can also investigate options for how to treat a UTI at home. Home remedies may be your best option for how to get rid of a UTI fast. They can also prevent UTI occurrences.

How to Treat a UTI at Home

Drink Plenty of Water

Water will help flush bacteria from your system. You may be hesitant to drink water because of the burning sensation produced during urination, but you will benefit from the hydration. Don’t wait until you are thirsty and dehydrated, drink water in advance. You can also eat foods with high water content like watermelon and soup.

Take a Probiotic

A probiotic supports healthy bacteria in the gut and may lower the presence of unhealthy bacteria. It may also reduce urine pH creating an unfriendly environment for harmful bacteria. Probiotics can also enhance antibiotic power so you get well sooner.

Drink Unsweetened Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice is a popular UTI remedy. Clinical evidence is thin, but some studies have shown cranberries’ D-mannose content prevents infections from sticking to urinary tract walls. Don’t count on cranberry juice to cure UTIs, but if you get infections often, it may help lower your risk. Stick to unsweetened cranberry juice as sugar can make UTIs worse. You may also take D-mannose on its own to prevent infections.

Eat Foods High in Vitamin C

Vitamin C is good for immunity. It can also acidify urine to limit the growth of bacteria and prevent UTIs. Be aware of eating too many acidic foods. They can irritate your bladder and worsen your condition.

Try Vaginal Estrogen

The vulvar skin thins during menopause causing vaginal pH to rise and increasing UTI risk. Vaginal estrogen can counteract the thinning process and reduce the risk of infection.

How to Get Rid of a UTI Fast

People wondering how to treat a UTI at home may consider various supplements. Here are some recommended products.

·  Ortho Molecular Ortho Biotic Women’s: Ortho Molecular carries some of the best evidence-based supplements on the market. Their Ortho Biotic Women’s supports vaginal microflora and urogenital health. It helps establish a healthy vaginal pH and remove unwanted organisms.

·  NutriDyn UT Soothe: NutriDyn features high-quality supplements that provide various health benefits. Its UT Soothe supports the kidneys and urinary tract and promotes healthy waste removal. It is an all-natural source of D-mannose.

·  Progressive U-Tract Complex Caps: Progressive features science-based nutraceutical products that optimize health. Its U-Tract Complex Caps contain a blend of D-mannose and herbal ingredients. It supports urinary tract health and may prevent related issues.

UTIs are unpleasant, but the right remedies will prevent them and help you determine how to get rid of a UTI fast. Various supplements and beverages will flush your system to ensure you maintain healthy vaginal microflora and the recommended pH balance. 

If a UTI is serious enough, such as may be the case if you are experiencing abdominal pain, back pain, or frequent painful urination, a course of antibiotics prescribed from your healthcare provider may be necessary. Keep in mind that antibiotic treatment may interfere with birth control medications.

In mild cases, however, it may be possible to manage symptoms of a UTI with natural home remedies and let your system flush out  any minor bacterial infections.

What over-the-counter dietary supplements do you take to keep UTIs at bay?

FAQs

What are common UTI symptoms?

UTI symptoms include a burning sensation when peeing or needing to pee more often than usual. Your urine may also look cloudy or you may see blood in it. You may also experience pain in your abdominal area or experience a fever or drop in body temperatures.

What causes a UTI?

UTIs occur when bacteria from feces enter the urinary tract. It is commonly caused by sex, pregnancy, kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, constipation, a weakened immune system, urinary catheters, a lack of fluids, or improper hygiene in the genital area.

Can a UTI cause a kidney infection?

Yes, an untreated urinary tract infection (UTI) can potentially lead to a kidney infection, known as pyelonephritis. This occurs when bacteria from the UTI spread to the kidneys, causing more severe symptoms and requiring prompt treatment.

Does pubic hair prevent UTIs?

Pubic hair may protect the genitals by trapping pathogens that could otherwise enter the body. Removing pubic hair makes a person more susceptible to UTIs, yeast infections, and vaginitis.

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Jamy Antoine, D.C. — by Marissa Bergen — On September 13, 2024

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Marissa Bergen

Marissa Bergen has been a freelance writer since 2016. She has written on various topics but especially enjoys writing about health innovations. When she’s not writing, she enjoys playing music with her Burbank, CA-based family punk rock band, The CheeseBergens.