Confirm symptoms consistent with a UTI (burning with urination, frequent urge, urgency, lower abdominal pain, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, blood in urine)
Contact a clinician promptly for urine testing (urinalysis and urine culture if indicated)
Start prescribed antibiotics as directed if infection is confirmed or strongly suspected
Complete the full antibiotic course even if symptoms improve
Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
Use over-the-counter pain relief as directed (acetaminophen or ibuprofen if safe for you)
Consider a urinary pain reliever (phenazopyridine) for short-term symptom relief if available and safe for you
Avoid bladder irritants while symptoms last (alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks, spicy foods)
Avoid delaying urination; urinate when you feel the urge
For recurrent UTIs, discuss prevention options with a clinician (behavioral changes, targeted antibiotics, or other strategies)
Seek urgent care immediately if you have fever, chills, flank/back pain, nausea/vomiting, pregnancy, male sex, kidney disease, immunosuppression, or symptoms lasting more than 24–48 hours despite treatment
Seek urgent care if you cannot keep fluids down, have severe pain, or notice worsening blood in urine