Mild cases of acute UTI may disappear spontaneously without treatment. However, because of the risk of the infection spreading to the kidneys (complicated UTI), treatment is usually recommended. Also, due to the high mortality rate in the elderly population, prompt treatment is recommended.

In most cases, treatment can be done on an outpatient basis.

MEDICATIONS:
Antibiotics may be used to control the bacterial infection. It is imperative that you finish the entire course of prescribed antibiotics. Commonly used antibiotics include:

• Nitrofurantoin
• Sulfa drugs (sulfonamides)
• Quinolones (ciprofloxacin)
• Penicillins (amoxicillin)
• Cephalosporins
• Tetracyclines (doxycycline)

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride (Pyridium) may be used to reduce the burning and urinary urgency associated with cystitis.

SURGERY:
Surgery is generally not indicated for catheter-related urinary tract infection. However, chronic indwelling catheters (Foley or suprapubic tube) should be changed every month. Proper sterile technique must be used.

DIET:
Increasing the intake of fluids to 2,000 to 4,000 cc per day encourages frequent urination that flushes the bacteria from the bladder. Avoid fluids that irritate the bladder, such as alcohol, citrus juices, and caffeine.

MONITORING:
Follow-up may include urine cultures to ensure that bacteria are no longer present in the bladder.

Cystitis associated with catheters is often difficult to treat. Most people who have a catheter in place for any period of time will develop some degree of cystitis.

• Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infection
• Complicated UTI
• Pyelonephritis

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate cystitis or a catheter-related UTI might be present.

If you have cystitis, call if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, especially fever, back or flank pain, and vomiting.