A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common medical issue that can affect anyone, causing discomfort and inconvenience. While many UTIs can be treated effectively with antibiotics, some individuals may avoid treatment or not recognize the signs. 

An untreated UTI can lead to various complications, from kidney malfunctions to permanent damage to your kidney. In this article, we will learn about the consequences of leaving a UTI untreated and why seeking medical attention is crucial.

Complications of an untreated UTI

So, what happens if a UTI goes untreated? Can’t your body just fight it off? In some cases, it might, but more often than not, untreated UTIs can lead to much bigger problems. 

Let’s break down the potential complications.

Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis refers to an infection that can occur in any section of the kidney. This condition can develop when a basic Urinary Tract Infection affecting the bladder remains untreated. As per the Urology Care Foundation, around 3% of UTIs progress to a kidney infection.

In individuals who are young and in good health, Pyelonephritis can generally be effectively managed using antibiotics. The chances of permanent harm to the kidneys are minimal. Nevertheless, certain individuals with Pyelonephritis face an elevated risk of experiencing kidney damage or the formation of scars, such as:

  • Infants
  • People over 60 years old
  • People with an abnormal urinary tract (horseshoe kidney or polycystic kidney disease)
  • Men having prostate obstruction
  • Weakened immune system

Consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms, as they can indicate you have Pyelonephritis:

  • Chills 
  • Fever 
  • Pain in your back, side, or groin
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Cloudy, dark, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
  • Frequent, painful urination

Complications in pregnancy

If you’re pregnant, an untreated UTI can pose risks not just to you but also to your baby. If left untreated, a UTI can lead to the following complications:

  • Premature birth
  • Maternal sepsis
  • Kidney infection
  • Low birth weight

That’s why it’s crucial to seek treatment at the first sign of an infection during pregnancy.

Sepsis

Sepsis is a critical medical condition resulting from the body’s reaction to an infection. It occurs when the immune system engages in combatting an infection but inadvertently triggers excessive inflammation throughout the entire body. According to a 2013 study, UTIs can cause 10 to 30% of cases of Sepsis. 

The risk factors for developing Sepsis include:

  • Diabetes
  • Older individuals over 65 years
  • History of urinary tract procedures
  • Weak immune system

Sepsis is a serious condition that requires immedicate medical attention. Some of the symptoms of this condition are as follows:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Higher breathing rate
  • Swelling in various parts of the body
  • Change in the mental status
  • Higher body temperature
Did you know?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.7 million adults in the United States annually develop Sepsis, and nearly 2,70,000 individuals die because of its effects.

Permanent kidney damage

Woman suffering from obesity
Woman suffering from obesity

Ignoring UTIs can lead to a severe complication which is permanent kidney damage. The kidneys are like your body’s filters, cleaning your blood and eliminating waste. When a UTI isn’t treated, it can damage the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney failure. 

The kidneys may not function properly, leading to fluid buildup, high blood pressure, and other health problems. In some cases, individuals may require dialysis or a kidney transplant to improve kidney function.

The risk factors for developing chronic kidney disease are as follows:

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Family history of kidney disease
  • Abnormal kidney structure
  • Older age
  • Frequent use of medications that can damage the kidneys

The following symptoms can raise a red flag for chronic kidney disease:

  • High blood pressure
  • Night-time urination 
  • Changes in how your urine looks 
  • Haematuria (blood in your urine)
  • Puffiness (in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes)
  • Tiredness or weakness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Itching
  • Restless legs
  • Breathlessness

Can a UTI go away on its own?

Indeed, certain UTIs can disappear without treatment. If left untreated, UTI symptoms can endure for approximately a week. This scenario occurs in around 40% of uncomplicated UTI cases. 

Nevertheless, it is not always foreseeable whether and when a UTI will resolve on its own. This outcome is more probable in adult women without concurrent health issues. However, even if a UTI resolves spontaneously, the consequences of not treating it can be notably severe. 

Some untreated UTIs can lead to significant health complications, possibly necessitating hospital care. It is advisable to inform your healthcare provider if you suspect UTI symptoms. They can help identify the cause of your symptoms and formulate an appropriate treatment approach, including effective medicines, such as Augmentin 375.

Warning:
Remember to complete your entire antibiotic course for UTI, as your doctor prescribes. Leaving the course mid-way can increase the chances of recurrent infections.

Conclusion

An untreated UTI can lead to severe complications such as Pyelonephritis, Sepsis, permanent kidney damage, and pregnancy-related risks. Although some UTIs may resolve without medical intervention, the potential for significant health issues underscores the importance of seeking prompt treatment. 

Ignoring the signs of a UTI can result in lasting harm, emphasizing the critical need for early diagnosis and appropriate management. By addressing UTIs promptly, individuals can avoid the dire consequences and maintain their overall health and well-being. Always consult a healthcare provider at the first indication of UTI symptoms to ensure effective treatment and prevention of complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can happen if a UTI goes untreated?

An untreated UTI can lead to severe complications such as kidney infections, Sepsis, and permanent kidney damage. It may also cause pregnancy-related risks like premature birth. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent these serious health issues.

How long can a UTI last untreated?

A UTI can last untreated for about a week, but this varies. Around 40% of UTIs might resolve on their own. However, leaving a UTI untreated can lead to complications such as kidney infections and Sepsis. Timely treatment is essential to prevent potentially serious health issues.

What happens if a UTI is left untreated for 2 weeks?

If a UTI is left untreated for 2 weeks, it might spread to the upper urinary tract and cause unwanted effects. However, the complications may differ from one person to another based on their underlying conditions.

Citations:
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