Don’t Ignore a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Why Early Treatment Matters
I like to tell patients that there are two things they need to be careful about as they get older - urinary tract infections (UTIs) and hip fractures. Well, I must officially be older. UTIs are common, but they shouldn’t be ignored, regardless of age.. Prompt treatment can prevent complications and keep you feeling your best. This post comes from both personal and clinical experiences. I will walk you through the importance of recognizing UTI symptoms and acting quickly. I ignored these symptoms early on and had I not been keenly familiar with the signs of a severy bodily infection, I might not be writing this to you today.
What is a UTI?
A UTI occurs when bacteria, usually (but not always) Escherichia coli (E. coli), enter the urinary system, which includes the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. Though more common in women, UTIs can affect anyone. They are typically categorized as:
Lower urinary tract infections - affecting the bladder and urethra.
Upper urinary tract infections - involve the kidneys and can become serious and potentially life-threatening if left untreated.
Common Symptoms of a UTI (all or some may be present)
A frequent, urgent need to urinate—even when little comes out
Pain or burning during urination
Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine
Pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort
Blood in the urine
Fatigue or fever (especially with more advanced infections)
Why Prompt Treatment is Essential
Preventing Kidney Infections: If untreated, a UTI can spread from the bladder to the kidneys, resulting in pyelonephritis. Kidney infections are severe and can lead to permanent damage, hospitalization, or even sepsis—a life-threatening condition in which the infection spreads to the bloodstream.
Avoiding Recurrent Infections: Delaying treatment or improper management can lead to recurrent UTIs, which are frustrating and affect quality of life. Chronic bladder inflammation, known as interstitial cystitis, is another potential outcome of untreated or frequent infections.
Protecting Pregnant Patients: During pregnancy, untreated UTIs can cause serious complications, including preterm labor, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Regular prenatal care, including UTI screenings, is essential to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
Reducing Antibiotic Resistance: Starting treatment early reduces the chance of needing stronger medications later. Waiting too long or stopping antibiotics prematurely can encourage antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making future infections harder to treat. I strongly recommend obtaining a urine culture any time you have a UTI to ensure the proper treatment is provided.
Preventing Sepsis and Emergency Situations: UTIs that spread beyond the urinary system can cause sepsis, a medical emergency. Sepsis requires immediate intervention and can be life-threatening if not addressed in time.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any UTI symptoms, don’t wait to seek care. Schedule an appointment if you notice:
Fever, chills, or back pain (possible kidney involvement)
Blood in your urine
Persistent symptoms, despite home remedies
Symptoms in higher-risk individuals, such as pregnant patients, infants, or the elderly
At Seeds of Health Direct Primary Care, we strive to make it easy for you to access care when you need it.
Prevention Tips
While UTIs aren’t always preventable, these practices can help lower your risk:
Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently.
Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.
Urinate soon after sexual activity.
Avoid irritating products, such as scented sprays.
Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing.
Drink 2.7 oz of diluted pure cranberry juice daily if you have history of UTIs
UTIs may seem like minor annoyances, but they can quickly escalate if ignored. Acting early helps you avoid complications, ensures faster recovery, and keeps your body healthy. Trust me (as both a patient and dcotor), don’t let a UTI linger—if you notice symptoms, reach out right away.
