Every year, a lot of people battle with urinary tract infections (UTIs). They may affect the kidneys, urethra, bladder, and other urinary system components. Many individuals ponder whether treating them always requires the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are frequently prescribed, but whether you genuinely need them depends on your general health and the severity of the infection. Knowing when antibiotics are required will help you avoid overusing them and maintain your health. It will also help prevent antibiotic resistance and guarantee that you receive the right care. So, let’s dig into the basics of UTIs and determine when you might need an antibiotic.
For same-day UTI diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark. Our board-certified medical team is available seven days a week to provide the highest quality of care for patients in Clark, NJ. Just walk-in today!
What Are The Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection?
UTIs can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on which part of the urinary system is affected. If you suspect that you have a UTI, it’s important to seek medical attention for a professional diagnosis and treatment advice.
Common signs and symptoms of a UTI include:
- Frequent urination
- Burning sensation
- Cloudy urine
- Blood in urine
- Pelvic pain
Do You Need Antibiotics For a UTI?
Depending on your condition, you may or may not require antibiotics for a UTI. You do not always need antibiotics if you frequently run to the bathroom, feel burning in your body, or notice that your urine is hazy or has an overpowering odor. Increasing your water intake and utilizing over-the-counter pain medicines may be sufficient to alleviate your symptoms if you're generally in good health. UTIs that are caused by bacteria, rather than just irritation, cannot be cured without the use of antibiotics, and symptoms will continue to become more and more uncomfortable.
However, antibiotics may be necessary if the condition is more serious, such as a high temperature, severe pelvic discomfort, blood in your urine, or if UTIs seem to be a recurrent problem. Treating more severe cases of UTIs is especially important if you’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system.
Does Every UTI Need Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are not necessary for all UTIs. Occasionally, spermicides or irritating soaps cause your symptoms rather than microorganisms. In these situations, avoiding medicines helps you stay clear of needless side effects and keeps you from causing antibiotic resistance. You may feel better if you make small changes to your diet or personal care items.
UTIs caused by bacteria growing in the urinary tract do require antibiotics, though. At-home remedies like cranberry juice and increased water intake may temporarily alleviate symptoms but won’t kill the bacteria, and the infection will worsen. Your healthcare provider can test a urine sample to determine what bacteria is growing and then choose the right antibiotic to fight the infection. Overuse of antibiotics can cause bacterial resistance, which makes it harder to treat future infections effectively.
Get Walk-In UTI Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Clark in Clark, NJ
Urgent care centers are the best place for same-day diagnosis, testing, and treatment for uncomfortable UTI symptoms. If you’ve been suffering, today is the day to change that with the help of medical professionals! At AFC Urgent Care Clark, we offer on-site urine testing so you can receive quick results and leave with a prescription for antibiotics if that’s determined to be the best treatment option. Our urgent care center is conveniently located at 77 Central Avenue, Unit 5 in Clark, NJ. We’re open seven days a week and appointments are never required to be seen by a healthcare provider! Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about UTI treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (732) 301-5114.
