Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and uncomfortable, but with proper treatment, most people start to feel relief relatively quickly. If you are currently being treated for a UTI, you might be wondering how to know if the infection is improving. In this blog, we’ll explore the key signs to look for that indicate your urinary tract infection is on the mend, as well as when it might be necessary to seek further medical attention.
For same-day UTI diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our medical team is dedicated to providing convenient, accessible, and affordable care to all patients in the Livingston, NJ area. Just walk-in today!
Causes and Symptoms of UTIs
Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria, most commonly E. coli, enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. While anyone can get a UTI, they are more common in women due to their shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
Common symptoms of a UTI include:
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Frequent urges to urinate
- Cloudy, strong-smelling, or dark-colored urine
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- A sensation of pressure or discomfort in the bladder
For more severe cases or infections that have spread to the kidneys, symptoms can include fever, chills, and back pain.
Signs Your UTI Is Healing
Decreased Pain and Burning
One of the most telltale symptoms of a UTI is the pain or burning sensation when urinating. As your body begins to respond to treatment, you should notice this discomfort starting to fade. The reduction in burning typically happens within a couple of days of starting antibiotics or other prescribed treatment. If you’re finding it easier to go to the bathroom with minimal or no pain, it’s a positive sign that your UTI is improving.
Reduced Urgency and Frequency
UTIs often cause frequent trips to the bathroom and an intense urge to urinate, even when your bladder is not full. As the infection subsides, these symptoms should gradually lessen. If you find that you are no longer rushing to the bathroom constantly and can hold off without discomfort, your urinary system is likely recovering.
Clearer Urine
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine is another common symptom of a UTI. As your infection clears up, you should notice that your urine becomes clearer and returns to a more normal appearance. Hydration plays a key role in this process, so be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria from your urinary tract.
Less Abdominal or Pelvic Discomfort
UTIs can cause discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. As the infection improves, this should diminish. While some soreness may linger for a few days, especially if the infection was severe, the pain should not be as sharp or persistent as it was before treatment. If you notice a significant decrease in this discomfort, it’s a strong sign your UTI is improving.
Get UTI Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Livingston in Livingston, NJ
While most UTIs improve with treatment, it’s important to stay alert to any signs that the infection might not be resolving. If your symptoms persist beyond a few days of treatment, or if they worsen, consult a healthcare provider. Symptoms like intense back pain, nausea, vomiting, or continued fever can indicate that the infection has spread to your kidneys, requiring further treatment. Recovering from a UTI is typically a quick process when the infection is caught early and treated appropriately. By monitoring these key signs, you can feel confident that your body is healing.
For same-day UTI treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our urgent care center is conveniently located at 90 South Livingston Avenue in Livingston, NJ, and we provide immediate care seven days a week with no appointment necessary. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about UTI treatment, please contact our team directly at (973) 601-2626.
