If you’ve ever had a urinary tract infection, you know just how uncomfortable and disruptive it can be. You might be wondering, especially when the symptoms hit hard, if there’s a way to get rid of a UTI in just 24 hours. The short answer is—it’s unlikely.
But before you feel disheartened, there are things you can do to manage the discomfort and speed up recovery. While there’s no miracle cure for a UTI, early treatment and self-care can make a big difference in how quickly you start to feel better.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria, often from the digestive system, enter the urinary tract and begin to multiply. This can cause irritation and inflammation in areas such as the bladder (cystitis) or the urethra (urethritis), leading to the familiar burning sensation when you urinate, a frequent need to go to the loo, and sometimes lower abdominal pain.
Although UTIs are more common in women due to their shorter urethra, men can also develop infections. Left untreated, a UTI can spread to the kidneys, leading to more severe complications, which is why timely treatment is crucial.
Is 24-hour treatment a bit optimistic?
While it’s tempting to hope for a rapid solution, the reality is that clearing up a urinary tract infection in 24 hours is generally not achievable. Antibiotics, the standard treatment for bacterial UTIs, typically take a few days to work, even if they are prescribed as soon as symptoms appear.
Most people begin to feel better within 24 to 48 hours of starting the course, but it’s essential to finish all prescribed antibiotics to fully eliminate the infection.
How to act fast when dealing with a UTI
The sooner you start addressing the symptoms of a UTI, the better. If you catch it early, there are a few steps you can take to minimise the severity and discomfort while waiting for your prescribed treatment to kick in.
Hydration is key
Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from your urinary tract. Aim to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day when you first notice symptoms. The more you urinate, the more likely you are to remove bacteria from your system. Just be prepared for some frequent trips to the bathroom.
Over-the-counter relief
While you wait for antibiotics to take effect, over-the-counter pain relief can help manage some of the discomfort. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can reduce pain, and there are specialised cystitis relief sachets available that contain ingredients like sodium citrate to help neutralise the acidity in your urine, which can alleviate the burning sensation.
Cranberry juice and D-mannose
You’ve likely heard the old wives’ tale that cranberry juice can cure a UTI. While it won’t get rid of an infection on its own, cranberry products, particularly those containing D-mannose (a type of sugar), may help prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. However, these remedies work more as prevention rather than treatment, so while they can be part of your toolkit, don’t rely on them for quick relief.
When to see a doctor
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a UTI, especially if they’re worsening or not improving within 24 to 48 hours, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics, which, as mentioned, are the most effective way to get rid of a urinary tract infection.
In some cases, your GP may recommend a stronger or longer course of antibiotics, particularly if you’ve had recurrent infections or if the UTI has spread to your kidneys.
If you have a high fever, severe pain, or notice blood in your urine, don’t wait to see if it clears up on its own—these are signs that the infection could be spreading, and you’ll need immediate medical attention.
Preventing future UTIs
Once you’ve got the infection under control, it’s worth considering steps to prevent future urinary tract infections. Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in keeping your urinary tract healthy.
Stay hydrated regularly
As with managing a UTI, drinking plenty of water every day can help prevent bacteria from building up in your urinary tract. Staying well-hydrated is one of the easiest and most effective preventive measures.
Maintain good hygiene
Good personal hygiene is crucial in preventing bacteria from entering the urinary tract. For women, wiping front to back after using the loo can help minimise the risk of spreading bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra. Avoid harsh soaps and perfumes that can irritate the genital area, as these may increase the likelihood of infection.
Consider dietary supplements
Cranberry extracts, D-mannose supplements, and probiotics may offer some protection against future UTIs by promoting a healthier urinary environment. While they won’t prevent every infection, some studies suggest that these supplements can lower the risk, particularly in people who experience recurrent UTIs.
Final notes
While it might not be possible to fully clear up a UTI in just 24 hours, being proactive and seeking the right treatment early can make a big difference in how quickly you feel better. Use the time wisely by staying hydrated, taking appropriate medication, and adopting preventive measures to reduce the risk of future infections. That way, you’ll be back to your best in no time!