Urinary tract infection (UTI): What to watch for and what to do
UTIs are common and usually fixable, but they can get serious if ignored. This page tells you how to recognize a UTI, when to seek help, common treatments, simple prevention steps, and safe ways to get medication if you need it.
Quick symptoms & when to see a doctor
Typical UTI signs are a burning feeling when you pee, needing to go often or urgently, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and lower belly discomfort. If you get fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or pain in your back/side (flank), that can mean the infection reached your kidneys—see a doctor right away. Pregnant people, people with diabetes, men, and anyone with a weakened immune system should also get medical attention sooner rather than later.
If you get repeated UTIs (two or more in six months, or three or more in a year), ask your clinician about further testing. Recurrent infections sometimes need different treatment or a referral to a urologist.
Treatment options and safe buying tips
Most uncomplicated lower UTIs are treated with short courses of antibiotics. Common choices include nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (where local resistance is low), and pivmecillinam in some countries. Cephalexin is another option—if you’re curious about other choices, we have a clear guide called "5 Alternatives to Cephalexin in 2025" that explains pros and cons of alternatives.
Always use the antibiotic your clinician prescribes for the full course. Stopping early can lead to recurrence or resistance. If symptoms don’t improve within 48–72 hours of starting treatment, contact your provider—sometimes urine testing or a different antibiotic is needed.
Want to buy meds online? Check that the pharmacy is registered with the appropriate regulator (for the UK, look for NHS/MHRA registration; in the US, verify credentials and a real pharmacist). Read our reviews and safety guides on buying meds online to compare sites and avoid risks. Never buy antibiotics from sources that don’t require a prescription—fake meds can be harmful.
For women who get UTIs after sex, simple steps like urinating soon after intercourse and staying well hydrated can help. Avoiding spermicides and using barrier methods that suit you may also reduce episodes. For older adults, watch for subtle signs like sudden confusion or falls—UTIs can present differently in this group.
Prevention tips that actually help: drink enough water, pee when you need to, wipe front to back, and consider talking with your clinician about low-dose or postcoital prophylaxis if infections keep coming back. Cranberry products and D‑mannose show mixed results—some people find them helpful, but they aren’t a guaranteed fix.
If you’re unsure whether it’s a UTI or something else, or if you’re pregnant or have other health issues, get medical advice. Use treatments wisely, protect your health with simple prevention steps, and rely on trustworthy pharmacies when you need medication.
