long lasting UTI
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A long-lasting UTI (urinary tract infection) is an infection in your urinary system that either doesn't go away with treatment or keeps coming back. It can affect your bladder, the tube that carries urine out of your body (urethra), or your kidneys.
Key facts
- UTIs are very common, especially in women.
- Most UTIs clear up with antibiotics, but some become persistent.
- Long-lasting UTIs may require a different approach to treatment.
Yes, long-lasting UTIs are fairly common, especially among women and older adults. Many people experience recurrent infections.
Anyone can get a long-lasting UTI, but they are more common in women, older adults, people with diabetes, and those who use a urinary catheter or have blockages in their urinary tract.
Symptoms
- High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C) with chills
- Severe pain in your back or side (just below your ribs)
- Nausea or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
- Blood in your urine (pink, red, or cola-colored)
- ⚠Pain when you pee that gets worse
- ⚠Fever that does not improve with rest and fluids
- ⚠Symptoms that last more than 2 days without getting better
Common symptoms
- A burning or stinging feeling when you pee
- Needing to pee more often than usual
- Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
- A feeling of pressure or pain in your lower belly or pelvic area
Symptoms in children
- Fever without a clear cause
- Fussiness or irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Wetting accidents (even if potty trained)
Symptoms in older adults
- Confusion or sudden changes in behavior
- Agitation or restlessness
- Lack of energy or fatigue
- Loss of bladder control (incontinence)
Causes
Main causes
- Bacteria (most often E. coli from the bowel) entering the urinary tract through the urethra
- Structural problems in the urinary tract that make it hard to fully empty your bladder
- Antibiotic resistance, meaning the usual treatment no longer works against some bacteria
Risk factors
- Being female (women have a shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder)
- Sexual activity
- Pregnancy
- Menopause (changes in hormones weaken the urinary tract's defenses)
- Diabetes (high sugar in urine can encourage bacteria growth)
- Using a urinary catheter
- Having a blockage like a kidney stone or enlarged prostate
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have severe pain, high fever, or bloody urine
- If you cannot pee at all
Book a routine appointment if:
- If mild symptoms (burning, frequent urination) last more than a few days
- If you have had more than two UTIs in six months, or three in a year
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and take a urine sample to test for infection.
Tests that may be done
- Urine dipstick test (checks for signs of infection like white blood cells or nitrites)
- Urine culture (grows bacteria from your urine to identify the exact germ)
- Imaging tests (like an ultrasound or CT scan) if the infection keeps returning
What to expect at your appointment
Your doctor will likely prescribe a course of antibiotics. If your infections keep coming back, they may order extra tests to look for underlying causes.
Treatment
Treatment for a long-lasting UTI focuses on clearing the current infection and preventing future ones. This may involve a longer course of a different kind of antibiotic or a low-dose antibiotic taken daily for several months.
Self-care at home
- Drink plenty of water (aim for 6–8 glasses a day) to flush out bacteria
- Urinate as soon as you feel the need, and empty your bladder completely
- Avoid using harsh soaps, bubble baths, or douches in the genital area
- After sexual activity, urinate to help flush away any bacteria
Medical treatments
The main treatment is antibiotics. Your doctor will choose the best type based on the bacteria found in your urine. For some people, especially after menopause, a topical estrogen cream may be recommended to strengthen the urinary tract. Always take the full course of antibiotics as directed.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed. But if a blockage (like a kidney stone or an enlarged prostate) is causing the infections, surgery to remove the blockage may help.
Living with this condition
Living with a long-lasting UTI can be frustrating. Stay hydrated, follow your treatment plan, and keep a symptom diary to share with your doctor. Over-the-counter pain relievers (like paracetamol) may help with discomfort, but check with your doctor first.
Lifestyle tips
- Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to keep the area dry
- Avoid holding urine for long periods
- Manage stress, which can weaken your immune system
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports your immune system. Some people find cranberry juice helpful, but the evidence is mixed. Kegel exercises can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which may help with bladder control.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Dealing with a chronic infection can be stressful and affect your mood. It's normal to feel worried or frustrated. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your doctor. They can refer you to a counselor or mental health service. If you have thoughts of self-harm, call a crisis line immediately.
Prevention
Some UTIs can be prevented with good hygiene and lifestyle habits. For people with frequent infections, a doctor may suggest taking a low-dose antibiotic after sex or daily, called 'prophylaxis.'
Vaccines
There is no vaccine to prevent UTIs currently.
Screening programmes
No routine screening is recommended for people without symptoms.
Complications
If left untreated
- Kidney infection (pyelonephritis), which can cause permanent kidney damage
- Sepsis, a life-threatening spread of infection throughout the body
- Increased risk of future kidney problems
Long-term outlook
With proper treatment, most long-lasting UTIs can be managed. It may take time and patience, but many people find relief. Work closely with your healthcare team to find a plan that works for you.
Find support
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.