Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common occurrence, affecting millions of people each year. Characterized by a range of uncomfortable symptoms, UTIs can significantly disrupt daily life. For many individuals experiencing these symptoms, a pressing question often arises: How long will this UTI last? In this blog, we’ll explore the duration of UTIs, explaining factors that can affect their length and when it’s time to seek medical attention.
For same-day UTI testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Farmington. Our urgent care center provides immediate treatment for a range of common conditions. Simply walk-in to start recovering today!
Average Timeline For Urinary Tract Infections
UTIs typically go away in under a week for many, especially when antibiotics are administered. However, it’s important to note that the recovery time differs according to several factors. Urinary tract infections usually last for an average of a few days to a week for most individuals, but the particular number of days for which the symptoms persist depends on factors like:
- How severe the infection is
- Where the infection is
- How you treat the UTI
- Your immune response and overall health
Depending on the nature of your UTI, as to whether it is complicated or uncomplicated, your healthcare provider will make a custom treatment schedule to allow you to recover as fast as possible.
Uncomplicated UTIs
These are the most common types as they often display the typical symptoms such as:
- Bloody urine
- Painful or burning sensation while urinating
- Pain in the pelvic region
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or smelly urine
In the cases of uncomplicated UTIs, symptoms start to improve after about two days of antibiotic treatment. Many individuals report relief from symptoms such as pain during urination and urgency to urinate within the first 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. Nevertheless, you must make sure to complete your dosage to reduce the chances of a recurrence and to fully clear the infection.
Complicated UTIs
Complicated urinary tract infections refer to infections that occur in individuals with underlying health conditions or anatomical abnormalities that increase the risk of complications or prolonged treatment. These conditions may compromise the body’s ability to fight off infections or hinder the effectiveness of antibiotics. Complicated UTIs can affect various parts of the urinary tract, including the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys. Complicated UTIs can linger from weeks to months, in serious cases. Most times, intravenous (IV) antibiotics are administered to clear and treat this type of UTI.
When to Seek Medical Attention
So, if you are feeling feverish, or experiencing lower back pain, nausea, or achy joints, or muscles, you should seek the guidance of a medical practitioner urgently. More importantly, most people do not have the risk of kidney infections or long-term damage with UTIs, but those who have conditions that make their immune system prone to high risk, are advised to seek urgent medical care. High-risk groups include the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and those with underlying health conditions. If your symptoms persist or recur despite treatment, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Listen to your body, err on the side of caution, and seek urgent medical care if you are experiencing symptoms of a UTI that worsen or persist.
Get Walk-In UTI Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Farmington
The duration of a UTI can vary depending on several factors. While most uncomplicated UTIs can be successfully treated within a few days, recurrent infections or lingering symptoms may require further medical evaluation. If you are experiencing UTI symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a healthcare provider for personalized treatment and support. At AFC Urgent Care Farmington, your health is our top priority. We’re open seven days a week and appointments are not required. If you have any additional questions about UTI treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (505) 326-6000.
