Does a UTI always need to be treated with an antibiotic?
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on April 10, 2019.

Official Answer
by Drugs.comA UTI (urinary tract infection) should usually be treated with an antibiotic.
Bacteria do not normally live in the urinary tract, and even mild infections can lead to complications, so it is important to seek the advice of your health care provider.
An untreated bladder infection (cystitis) may progress to a kidney infection (pyelonephritis).
Other conditions with symptoms similar to a UTI, such as a vaginal yeast infection or inflammation of the urethra can occur, so it is important to have an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Related Medical Questions
- UTI vs Bladder vs Yeast Infections - What's the difference?
- What antibiotics are used to treat UTI?
- What dose of co-trimoxazole is used in a patient with a UTI?
- Can clarithromycin be used to treat UTI's?
- What is "dual release" nitrofurantoin?
- What drugs are contained in Vabomere?
- What type of drug is Zemdri?
Related Support Groups
- Urinary Tract Infection (151 questions, 547 members)