Urinary tract infections (UTI) are caused by germs, usually
bacteria that enter the urethra, then the bladder. This can lead
to infection, most commonly in the bladder itself. At times, the
infection can spread to the kidneys. Most likely, your symptoms
include foul or strong urine odor, pain or burning when you
urinate, and a strong need to empty your bladder. These symptoms
should improve soon after you begin taking antibiotics. If you
are feeling ill, have a low-grade fever, or some pain in your
lower back, these symptoms will take 1 - 2 days to improve, and
up to 1 week to go away completely. Taking Your Medicines You
will be given antibiotics to be taken by mouth at home. For a
simple bladder infection, you will take antibiotics for 3 days
(women). For a bladder infection with complications such as
pregnancy or diabetes, or a mild kidney infection, you will
usually take antibiotics for 7 - 14 days. It is important that
you take all of the antibiotics, even if you feel better. If you
do not finish all of