What are the consequences of an untreated urinary tract infection?
February 12, 2024 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Sandra Siebert
Dear team,
My name is Christine Winterberg and I am reaching out to you regarding a possible urinary tract infection that I may have. A few days ago, I started to feel a burning sensation when urinating, accompanied by frequent urination and mild lower abdominal pain. I have also noticed that my urine is cloudier than usual. Since these symptoms are not going away, I am concerned about the possible consequences if I leave the urinary tract infection untreated.
I have read that untreated urinary tract infections can lead to serious complications, such as kidney inflammation or even sepsis. This information is worrying me and I would like to know what specific consequences an untreated urinary tract infection can have. Are there long-term effects on my health if I do not treat the infection?
Furthermore, I would like to know what treatment options are available to fight the urinary tract infection and prevent potential complications. Should I see a doctor immediately or are there over-the-counter medications that I can take to alleviate the symptoms?
I thank you in advance for your help and advice on this matter.
Sincerely,
Christine Winterberg
Dear Christine Winterberg,
Thank you for your message and for trusting in my expertise regarding your possible urinary tract infection. It is important that you take care of your health and do not hesitate to seek medical advice if you experience symptoms such as a burning sensation when urinating, frequent urge to urinate, lower abdominal pain, and cloudy urine.
An untreated urinary tract infection can indeed lead to serious complications. If the infection is not treated in a timely manner, it can ascend and cause a kidney infection. In the worst case scenario, this can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening infection of the blood. Therefore, it is important to recognize and treat a urinary tract infection early to avoid such complications.
The treatment for a urinary tract infection usually involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. It is important that the infection is completely fought off by taking the right antibiotic to prevent relapses and avoid possible complications. Over-the-counter medications may temporarily relieve the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, but they do not treat the underlying cause of the infection.
I strongly recommend that you see a doctor immediately to have your symptoms evaluated and receive the necessary treatment. The doctor will usually take a urine sample to diagnose the urinary tract infection and prescribe a suitable antibiotic. The earlier you start treatment, the better the chances of healing and avoiding complications.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions you may have. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further assistance.
Best regards,
Sandra Siebert
