See a clinician for diagnosis and treatment, especially if symptoms are severe, recurrent, pregnant, male, immunocompromised, or in children
For uncomplicated cystitis in adults, start prescribed antibiotics as directed
Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and finish the full course
Drink plenty of water to help flush the urinary tract
Use urinary pain relief as directed (e.g., phenazopyridine for short-term symptom relief)
Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain or fever if you can take them safely
Avoid bladder irritants while symptomatic (caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, acidic drinks)
Use a heating pad or warm compress for lower abdominal discomfort
Consider urine culture if symptoms recur, do not improve within 48–72 hours, or if you have risk factors for resistant bacteria
Seek urgent care or emergency evaluation if you have flank/back pain, high fever/chills, nausea/vomiting, confusion, blood in urine with severe symptoms, or you are pregnant
Seek urgent care if you have symptoms of a kidney infection, sepsis concerns, or inability to keep fluids down
Contact a clinician promptly if symptoms persist beyond 48–72 hours after starting antibiotics
Do not use leftover antibiotics or change doses without medical advice
If sexually active and symptoms recur, ask a clinician about evaluation and prevention strategies
If you have frequent UTIs, ask about prevention options (behavioral changes, prophylactic antibiotics, or other clinician-recommended measures)