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Urinary Tract Infection
Alternate Names : Bladder Infection, Cystitis, UTI
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Urinary Tract Infection Treatment
A mild case of cystitis may resolve on its own even without treatment. Because of the risk of the infection spreading to the kidneys, however, antibiotics are usually recommended. It is important that you finish the entire course of prescribed antibiotics.
In children, cystitis should be treated promptly with antibiotics to protect their developing kidneys. Also, prompt treatment in the elderly is recommended due to the greater chances of fatal complications.
Commonly used antibiotics include:
- Nitrofurantoin
- Cephalosporins
- Sulfa drugs (sulfonamides)
- Amoxicillin
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
- Doxycycline (should not be used under age 8)
- Quinolones (should not be used in children)
Most non-elderly adult women only need 3 days of antibiotics. If the infection has spread to one of the kidneys, you may need hospitalization to receive hydration and antibiotics through a vein.
A chronic or recurrent UTI should be treated thoroughly because of the chance of kidney infection. Antibiotics may need to be given for a long period of time (as long as 6 months to 2 years), or stronger antibiotics may be needed than for single, uncomplicated episodes of cystitis.
Use of low-dose antibiotics on a daily basis may be recommended to prevent UTIs if you get frequent infections.
Phenazopyridine hydrochloride (pyridium) may be used to reduce the burning and urgency associated with cystitis. In addition, acidifying medications such a ascorbic acid may be recommended to decrease the concentration of bacteria in the urine.
If an anatomical abnormality is present, surgery to correct the problem may be recommended.
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• Definition
• Urinary Tract Infection Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms & Signs
• Urinary Tract Infection Prevention
• Urinary Tract Infection Diagnosis & Tests
• Urinary Tract Infection Treatment
• Urinary Tract Infection Prognosis
• Urinary Tract Infection Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
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Tests & Exams
• RBC - Urine
• Urinalysis
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• Vitamin C
Review Date : 10/19/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Alan Greene, M.D., F.A.A.P., Chief Medical Officer, A.D.A.M.; Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine; Attending Physician, Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford (3/3/2002).
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