Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

Urinary tract infection (UTI) treatment involves medications to eliminate infections in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Dr Png Keng Siang
Consultant Urologist & Robotic Surgeon

Indications for Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

Urinary tract infections require treatment when symptoms become noticeable and affect the person’s quality of life. Common indications for initiating treatment include:

Persistent urge to urinate

A frequent, intense urge to urinate, often resulting in only a small amount of urine being passed.

Painful urination

Experiencing discomfort, burning, or pain during urination, indicating inflammation in the urinary tract.

Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

Changes in the appearance or odour of urine can suggest the presence of bacteria or pus.

Symptoms of severe infection

Presence of blood in the urine, fever, or chills, which may indicate a more severe infection potentially involving the kidneys.

Benefits and Risks of Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

Infection Control: Timely antibiotic treatment can rapidly reduce bacterial levels, preventing the spread of infection to the kidneys and other areas.

Symptom Relief: Effective treatment quickly alleviates symptoms such as pain, urgency, and frequency of urination, improving quality of life.

Prevention of Complications: Proper treatment helps prevent potential complications, including recurrent infections, kidney damage, and, in severe cases, sepsis.

Reduced Risk of Chronic Conditions: Early and adequate treatment of UTIs can prevent the development of chronic urinary conditions, such as interstitial cystitis.

Antibiotic Resistance: Misuse or overuse of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance, making future infections harder to treat.

Side Effects of Medication: Antibiotics and other medications used in UTI treatment can have side effects ranging from mild (e.g., nausea, diarrhoea) to severe (e.g., allergic reactions).

Recurrent Infections: In some cases, UTIs can recur despite treatment, requiring further intervention and possibly leading to chronic urinary issues.

Preparing for Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

Proper preparation for urinary tract infection treatment can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and improve patient outcomes. Here are the key steps involved:

Medical Consultation

Before starting treatment, it is crucial to consult a urologist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Diagnostic Tests

A urine test is conducted to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection, which helps select the appropriate antibiotic.

Understanding Medication

Patients should understand how their prescribed medication works, its dosage, and the duration of the treatment to ensure optimal results.

Hydration

Increasing fluid intake is recommended to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.

Dietary Adjustments

Avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods may help alleviate symptoms and enhance comfort during treatment.

Urinary Tract Infection Treatments

The approach to treating a urinary tract infection involves a combination of medications and lifestyle adjustments tailored to the person’s symptoms and the severity of the infection. Treatment options include:

 

The primary treatment for bacterial UTIs. The type and duration of antibiotic therapy depend on the infection’s severity and the patient’s overall health.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended to manage pain and discomfort.

Medications such as sodium bicarbonate can be used to decrease urine acidity, which helps reduce discomfort during urination.

Patients are advised to increase their water consumption to help flush out the bacteria from the urinary system.

Steering clear of bladder irritants like caffeine, acidic foods, and alcohol during treatment can help reduce symptoms.

Prevention Measures

Preventive measures are crucial in reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and minimising recurrence. Here are some effective strategies:

Adequate Hydration

Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, helps dilute urine and ensures more frequent urination, flushing bacteria from the urinary tract before an infection can begin.

Urinate When Needed

Avoid holding urine for long periods as it can give bacteria time to grow.

Proper Hygiene

Good hygiene, especially after sexual activity and during menstruation, helps prevent bacterial entry into the urinary tract.

Avoid Irritants

Reducing or eliminating bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods from the diet can decrease UTI risk.

Dressing Appropriately

Wearing loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear allows airflow, reducing moisture build-up, which can promote bacterial growth.

Dr Png Keng Siang

Consultant Urologist & Robotic Surgeon

Dr Png is a United States fellowship-trained urologist who received his urology specialist board certification from Singapore. He is the first and only urologist in Singapore to be inducted into the Fellow, American College of Surgeons (FACS) after completing a minimally invasive surgery fellowship in the USA at the Indiana University School of Medicine, where he sub-specialised in robotic and laparoscopic surgery for urological cancers.

  • Joint Committee of Specialist Training Site Accreditor, Urology Residency Program
  • President of the Robotic Surgery Society of Singapore
Prior To Private Practice:
  • Director of the Robotic Urological Surgery Fellowship Program, Tan Tock Seng Hospital
  • Director of the National Healthcare Group Urology Residency Program & Adjunct Assistant Professor, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine
  • Member of the American Urological Association, Endourological Society (USA)
  • Executive Committee of the Singapore Urological Association, 2013 to 2020
Read Full Bio

Our clinics are under the following

insurance panels

For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.

Reach Out To Us

We are committed to providing a one-stop experience, where you’ll receive a meticulous consultation and high-quality service in a comfortable environment.

Get Started

Book An Appointment





    image

    • Book An Appointment

    • Media Enquiry

    • Partnership Opportunity



    image

    For faster response, Call Us

    (65) 6733 3383

    Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    Can I Treat a UTI Without Antibiotics?

    Not usually; antibiotics are typically required for bacterial UTIs, though minor infections might improve with increased fluid intake and urinary alkalinizers. Patients are advised always to consult a urologist.

    How Long Does It Take for Symptoms to Improve After Starting Treatment?

    Symptoms often improve within the first few days of treatment. However, it is crucial to complete the entire course of prescribed antibiotics to eradicate the infection fully.

    How Do I Know I Have a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

    Several common symptoms can indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI). These include a frequent urge to urinate, often accompanied by only a small amount of urine. You may also experience a painful or burning sensation during urination. Additionally, changes in the appearance of urine, such as it becoming cloudy, dark, or bloody, along with a strong or unusual odour, can also indicate a UTI. Recognising these signs is important for timely diagnosis and treatment.