A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection particularly among women, affecting millions of people every year. Common symptoms include burning when you pee, feeling like you need the toilet every five minutes, lower abdominal pain and cloudy or strong-smelling urine, which can all make day-to-day life difficult.
If you’re searching for how to get rid of a UTI fast, the most important thing to know is this: antibiotics are often the most effective treatment for bacterial UTIs. Drinking plenty of water, resting, taking pain relief medication and using a hot water bottle can all help you manage symptoms and feel more comfortable, but it’s important to remember that home remedies alone won’t reliably clear an infection.
Below, we’ll discuss how to get rid of a UTI quickly and reliably, in addition to explaining what causes UTIs and whether the cranberry juice remedy really works or is just a myth.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection or UTI happens when bacteria enter the urinary system and multiply. This infection can occur in:
- The urethra (urethritis)
- The bladder (cystitis)
- The kidneys (kidney infection or pyelonephritis)
Most UTIs are caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), which are bacteria that normally live in the bowel. E. coli usually live harmlessly in the lower intestines, but if they gain access to the urethra, they can travel up the urinary tract, multiply and cause a UTI.
UTIs can affect men, women, older adults and children, but women are significantly more likely to develop them because the female urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. According to research, over half of women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime, and almost one-quarter of them will experience a recurrent UTI (defined as adults as experiencing two or more symptomatic UTI episodes within 6 months, or three or more within 12 months).
