How to Get Rid of a UTI in 24 Hours

Written By Amanda Peterson, MD

Published OnNovember 20, 2024

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, especially among women. They can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including frequent urination, a burning sensation during urination, and lower abdominal pain. While antibiotics are often required for UTI treatment, some home remedies and lifestyle changes may help alleviate symptoms and support urinary tract health.

This article provides actionable tips on managing UTI symptoms, prevention techniques, and advice on when to seek medical attention.

What Is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, including the bladder infection, urethra, ureters, and kidneys. Most UTIs are caused by harmful bacteria, primarily Escherichia coli (E. coli), which can enter the urinary tract from the gastrointestinal tract.

Common symptoms of a UTI include:

Frequent urination
Burning sensation during urination
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
In more severe cases, fever, back pain, and potential kidney infection

How to Get Rid of a UTI Fast

While it is unlikely to completely eliminate a UTI in just one day without a full course of antibiotics, you can take steps to relieve symptoms and support your body's natural healing process. Here are the top strategies to manage UTIs:

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help dilute urine and promote frequent urination, which may help flush bacteria out of the urinary tract. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day to maintain proper hydration.

2. Use Cranberry Products

Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which may prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements may help reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs, though they do not cure an active infection.

3. Try Over-the-Counter Remedies

OTC products like AZO or Uristat (which contain phenazopyridine) can relieve burning and discomfort during urination. However, they do not treat the infection and should only be used temporarily. Pain relievers like ibuprofen may also help ease discomfort.

4. Consume Probiotics and D-Mannose

Probiotics, found in yogurt, kefir, or supplements, can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your body, which may reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs. Specific strains like Lactobacillus are particularly beneficial. D-Mannose, a natural sugar found in some fruits, may also help prevent E. coli from adhering to the bladder lining, reducing the risk of infection.

5. Avoid Irritants

During a UTI, avoid substances that can irritate your bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners. Opting for a bland diet may help minimize discomfort.

6. Apply a Heating Pad

A heating pad placed on the lower abdomen can help relieve pelvic pain associated with a bladder infection. Apply for 20-minute intervals to reduce discomfort.

7. Practice Good Hygiene

Wiping from front to back, urinating after intercourse, and avoiding harsh soaps in the genital area can help prevent UTIs. Women experiencing menopause may also benefit from estrogen-based treatments to maintain urinary tract health.

FAQs: Managing UTIs

Can a UTI go away on its own?

Some very mild UTIs may resolve on their own with increased hydration and home remedies. However, most require antibiotics, and untreated UTIs can worsen. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice from a healthcare professional.

Are antibiotics necessary for UTI treatment?

Yes, antibiotics are the primary treatment for UTIs. Common options include nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and fosfomycin. Some bacteria may be resistant to certain antibiotics, so a healthcare provider may need to prescribe an alternative based on bacterial culture results.

What happens if a UTI is left untreated?

An untreated UTI can spread to the kidneys, causing a more severe infection called pyelonephritis. This condition may require hospitalization and can lead to permanent kidney damage. In rare cases, it may even lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Are men at risk of UTIs?

While UTIs are more common in women, men can also develop UTIs, especially if they have medical conditions like an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, or incontinence that affect urinary flow.

Can birth control methods contribute to UTIs?

Yes, certain birth control methods like diaphragms and spermicides can increase the risk of UTIs by disrupting the balance of bacteria in the genital area. However, hormonal birth control (e.g., pills, IUDs) does not directly cause UTIs.

When to See a Doctor

If your symptoms persist beyond 24 hours or worsen despite trying home remedies, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider. Other warning signs that warrant medical attention include:

Fever and chills
Severe back or side pain
Blood in urine
Inability to urinate

Seeking timely medical attention ensures that a simple UTI does not escalate into a more serious condition. A healthcare professional can prescribe an appropriate course of antibiotics to effectively treat the infection and minimize the risk of complications.

Author

Amanda Peterson, MD
Board-Certified Urologist
Specialist in Urinary Tract Health and Women’s Health

Related Resources

Sources

Urinary tract infection (UTI) - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447
Williams, G., Hahn, D., Stephens, J. H., Craig, J. C., & Hodson, E. M. (2023). Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections. Cochrane Library, 2023(4). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd001321.pub6

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