An uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) can sometimes go away on its own without treatment.
This is especially true for a UTI without symptoms, known asasymptomatic bacteriuria.
When a UTI is properly treated, the risk of complications is low.
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ljubaphoto / Getty Images
When Can a UTI Go Away Without Antibiotics?
Most UTIs are considered uncomplicated or simple.
Cases like these are usually found during an incidental urine culture test used to screen for bacteria.
The only other indication for a urine culture is to test people withsymptoms of a UTI.
Some evidence supports this approach.
What About Antibiotic Resistance?
This helps ensure themost effective antibiotics are selected.
Complications of an untreated UTI include:
How Long Does a UTI Last Without Treatment?
However, the ability to do so can vary based on the strength of your immune system.
The same may apply to older adults whose immune function tends to weaken with age.
Do Home Remedies Work?
Many home remedies and alternative therapies are used to prevent or treat UTIs.
Though many people swear by these “natural” fixes, the evidence supporting their use can vary.
Between 25% and 50% of mild UTIs clear without treatment.
Health experts generally recommend antibiotics for people with symptomatic UTIs.
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