Urinary tract infection drugs are generally used to treat urinary tract infections (UTI). However, the use of this drug must be done correctly and should not be arbitrary, because the infection experienced may re-emerge and become more severe.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are most often caused by bacterial infections, one of which is bacteria E.Coli. That's why UTIs are often treated with antibiotics. However, besides antibiotics, there are several other ways that can be done to treat and prevent UTIs.
Various Urinary Tract Infection Drugs
To determine the type of treatment for a urinary tract infection, the doctor will perform a physical examination and supporting examinations, including a urine test, CT scan, MRI, and cystoscopy. If the test results show that you do have a UTI, the doctor will prescribe a urinary tract infection medication in the form of:
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the most commonly used urinary tract infection drugs because they can treat the bacteria that cause the infection. There are various types of antibiotics that can be given by doctors, including: ampicillin, levofloxacin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, cotrimoxazole, nitrofurantoin, and pipemidic acid.
Complaints of UTIs will generally subside soon after taking antibiotics. However, keep in mind that antibiotics should be taken as directed by your doctor to ensure the infection is treated properly and prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to treatment.
Although it does not always occur, there are some side effects that may occur while undergoing treatment with antibiotics, such as skin rashes, nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, headaches, and the emergence of drug allergic reactions.
Therefore, treatment with antibiotics should not be done carelessly and must be according to the doctor's advice.
Other drugs
In addition to antibiotics, the doctor may also give other drugs to reduce the complaints that are felt. For example, paracetamol to reduce pain and fever and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to help relieve inflammatory pain.
While important, the use of antibiotics to treat a UTI may not always be necessary. Some cases of UTI can heal on their own, especially those that are still relatively mild. This can generally be achieved if it is supported by a healthy and clean lifestyle.
Natural Ways to Help Treat Urinary Tract Infections
In addition to taking urinary tract infection medication, there are several other ways you can do at home to treat UTIs, including:
1. Drink lots of water
Drinking more water can help the body expel bacteria through urine and facilitate urination, so the infection can be quickly resolved.
2. Don't hold your pee
Holding urine for too long can increase the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract. This of course will further complicate the healing of UTIs.
3. Use a warm compress to relieve pain
Using a warm compress for 10-15 minutes can reduce pain caused by inflammation that occurs in UTI sufferers. Make sure the water for the compress is not too hot.
4. Live a healthy lifestyle
If you are an active smoker, stop smoking immediately because the nicotine in cigarettes can irritate the bladder surface. In addition, also stop consuming alcohol, spicy foods, or foods that contain artificial sweeteners, because they can worsen the UTI symptoms experienced.
5. Keep your urinary tract clean and healthy
In addition, it is recommended to do the following to help with recovery and prevent UTIs from returning:
- Use good absorbent underwear, for example, those made of cotton.
- Do not delay urination.
- Avoid clothes and underwear that are too tight or made of synthetic materials.
- Clean the genital area with a unidirectional motion from front to back to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria from the anus to the urinary tract.
- Avoid using powders or soaps with fragrances on the genital area.
With the right urinary tract infection medication, UTI complaints generally subside within a few days. If after treatment, your UTI doesn't improve or gets worse, don't hesitate to see a doctor for proper treatment.