How can I reduce the pain of a UTI? Discover the most effective home remedies for fast UTI relief, including heat, increased water intake, OTC medications, comfortable clothing, and more. Get personalized UTI treatment and recommendations.

Effective Home Remedies for Fast UTI Relief

Dealing with the urge to constantly go to the bathroom, pain during urination, and lower abdominal pressure and pain associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) can make it challenging to focus at work or school, enjoy favorite activities, and rest comfortably at night. Fortunately, there are several home remedies you can try to ease UTI symptoms and promote healing while your body fights the infection.

Apply Warmth to Reduce Cramping and Pressure

One of the simplest and most effective home remedies for UTI relief is the application of warmth. Try using warm compresses, a hot water bottle, or a heating pad on your pelvis. The heat increases blood flow to the area, which can help reduce cramping and pressure.

Boost Your Water Intake to Flush Out Bacteria

Drinking six to eight, 8-oz. glasses of water every day supports urine production, which helps flush bacteria out of your urinary tract. Each time you urinate, you’re helping to clear up the infection.

Take an OTC Medication for Temporary Relief

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is an over-the-counter pain reliever for the urinary tract that can temporarily alleviate the urinary urgency, pain, and pressure associated with UTIs. While it doesn’t treat the underlying infection, it can provide much-needed relief.

Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing

Tight, restrictive clothing can rub against your urethra and worsen the irritation that occurs during a UTI. Opt for loose-fitting clothes and breathable cotton underwear until your symptoms resolve.

Sip Some Cranberry Juice

Studies on the effectiveness of cranberry juice for UTI treatment have produced mixed results, but anecdotal evidence and some small studies indicate that cranberry juice may help make it difficult for bacteria to stick to the lining of the urinary tract. If you want to try this traditional folk remedy, choose a juice that lists cranberries as the first ingredient and is free of artificial sweeteners and added sugar.

Avoid Bladder Irritants

Certain foods and drinks can trigger bladder inflammation and intensify urinary tract infections. While your body heals, it’s best to cut down on or avoid caffeine, carbonated beverages, alcohol, spicy foods, acidic foods like fruits and vinegar, and refined sugar.

Combine Home Remedies with Medical Care

While the above home remedies may help ease the symptoms of a UTI, they are unlikely to cure the infection on their own. Antibiotics are usually necessary to aid the immune system in fighting off the bacteria that causes UTIs. You can combine home remedies with the medication prescribed by your primary care provider to both treat the infection and minimize your discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you decide to let your immune system fight the infection on its own, it’s important to keep a close eye on your condition. Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms, as they could indicate a more serious kidney infection:

• High fever
• Pain in your side
• Pain in your lower back
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Even without kidney infection symptoms, you should see your doctor if your UTI symptoms don’t improve after two or three days, you’ve had three or more UTIs in the last 12 months, or you have a medical condition or take a medication that suppresses your immune system.

Forward Delivers Personalized UTI Care

As your primary care provider, Forward delivers one-to-one, personalized care for UTIs. You can schedule an appointment in seconds and see a doctor virtually or in person. Prescriptions come right to your door for added convenience, and we’ll recommend the best home remedies for UTIs to keep you comfortable while you recover. With unlimited visits, personalized insights, and real, actionable results, you can finally enjoy seeing your doctor.

Am I a Candidate for Forward’s UTI Care?

To find out if you’re a candidate for Forward’s personalized UTI care, simply visit our website and answer a few questions about your health and needs. We’ll let you know if our services are a good fit and how to get started.