Should I Worry About Severe Side Pain and Blood in Urine After 3 Days of Antibiotics for a UTI?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically treated with antibiotics, and most people begin to feel better within 48 to 72 hours. However, when new symptoms appear—especially severe side pain and blood in the urine—during treatment, it becomes a cause for concern. These symptoms can indicate that the infection is not responding to the medication or that it has progressed into a more serious condition. Understanding what these signs mean and when to seek medical help is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring proper recovery. Understanding Normal UTI Recovery Timeline During the first few days of antibiotic treatment, improvement in symptoms such as burning, frequency, and urgency is expected. Pain should gradually decrease, and overall comfort should increase. While mild discomfort may linger, symptoms should not worsen. New or intensified symptoms, particularly blood in the urine or flank pain, are not typical and suggest the infection may be progressing. Monitoring y...