What Is the Fastest Way To Get Rid of a Bladder Infection?

Experiencing the symptoms of a bladder infection can be frustrating, especially when they disrupt your daily life. The fastest and most effective way to get rid of a bladder infection is to consult a healthcare provider. While some home remedies may relieve symptoms and provide psychological comfort, proven medical treatment is necessary to resolve the infection and prevent serious complications. This article explains how to address a bladder infection quickly and effectively.

Bladder Infection Symptoms

A bladder infection, also known as cystitis, is a common type of urinary tract infection (UTI). The symptoms of this type of bacterial infection can vary from person to person but often include a strong and persistent urge to urinate and a feeling of pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.

Additional symptoms of a bladder infection include:

• Pain during urination.
• Burning sensation during urination.
• Frequent urination.
• Needing to urinate even with an empty bladder.
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
• Blood in the urine.

If a bladder infection spreads to the kidneys, it can cause more severe symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or pain in the lower back or side. If you experience any of these more severe symptoms, seek immediate care.

The Fastest Solution for a Bladder Infection: Medical Treatment

Once you recognize the symptoms, the fastest way to feel better and cure the infection is to contact a primary care provider. Providers can diagnose a bladder infection through a simple urine test and then prescribe antibiotics, which are very effective. It’s crucial to take the full course of medicine as prescribed, even if your symptoms begin to improve after a day or two. Stopping early can allow the infection to return and lead to antibiotic resistance.

For many people, the symptoms of a bladder infection can begin to disappear within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. Some providers may also suggest over-the-counter pain medication to help manage discomfort while the antibiotics take effect.

Urgent care centers can also be helpful if you experience symptoms of a bladder infection. If you can’t get in to see your primary care provider promptly, an urgent care center can diagnose your condition and prescribe treatment.

Understanding Home Remedies for Bladder Infections

When it comes to home remedies, it’s essential to distinguish between those that have been proven to be effective and those that have not. For example, increasing your water intake is a safe and proven way to help prevent and treat bladder infections. Drinking more water helps to dilute your urine and flush out bacteria, which may decrease your risk of getting another infection.

Vaginal estrogen is another proven remedy for postmenopausal women to help prevent bladder infections.

Other home remedies, however, lack scientific evidence. For instance, drinking cranberry juice is a common recommendation, but there’s insufficient scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in treating a UTI. Some cranberry products may help prevent UTIs, but they will not treat an existing infection.

Other unproven remedies include D-mannose, probiotics, and methenamine salts. While common advice like peeing after sex and wiping front to back may seem like common sense, they have not been scientifically studied.

Get Help With Bladder Infections From Baptist Health

The fastest way to get rid of a bladder infection is to consult your primary care provider as soon as you experience symptoms. They can diagnose the condition and prescribe antibiotic treatment. While some home remedies may help alleviate discomfort, they shouldn’t be used as a substitute for medical care. You can also take steps to help prevent future infections by staying hydrated and practicing good hygiene.

Bottom line: Always consult with a healthcare provider about your symptoms and any treatments you are considering to ensure you receive the best care for a bladder infection.

To learn more about urology, call 1.855.404.7589 or find a provider by visiting our provider directory.

Next Steps and Helpful Resources

Learn More About Urology Care at Baptist Health
How Much Water Should You Drink Everyday?
What Color Should Urine Be?
Treating Kidney Stones