What Can I Do to Get Rid of a UTI?

A UTI, or urinary tract infection, is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in and around the urethra, ureters or bladder. It causes pain or burning when you urinate, and it can make you feel like you have to go all the time. These are relatively minor and easily curable infections, but if left untreated, UTIs can spread to the kidneys and become more severe. There are three approaches to getting rid of a UTI.

Prescription Remedies

• Sometimes a UTI will go away on its own, but when it doesn't, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics will kill the bacteria in your urinary tract and cure the infection. Common antibiotics include Amoxicillin or Augmentin, Doxycycline and sulfa drugs, or sulfonamides. If you have a lot of urgency, pain and burning, your doctor might also prescribe a medication like ascorbic acid or phenazopyridine hydrochloride to help with these problems. Medication regimes typically last three to seven days depending on the severity of the infection.

Over the Counter Remedies

• Many people, especially those who frequently get UTIs, can sense when one is coming on and take precautions to relieve their symptoms before they need antibiotics. This is done partly with over-the-counter remedies. Many new products have come on the market, such as Azo and Cranberry Extract. These remedies work by changing the pH of your urine so that it creates a hostile environment for bacteria. In many cases, you will still need prescription antibiotics, but over-the-counter remedies can offer relief from symptoms. Ask your pharmacist about the different over-the-counter options available.

Home Remedies

• Cranberry juice and vitamin C are home remedies that work to ease UTI symptoms. According to the University of Pittsburgh, they also change your urine's pH, creating urine that is more acidic than alkaline. People with urinary tract infections will also benefit from increasing their intake of clear fluids. This helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.