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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Prednisone and UTI

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Marquette, MI

I immediately got what I thought was a UTI after getting prescribed prednisone after a RA flare. I’ve been on antibiotics for 3 days and I’m still having problems emptying my bladder all the way. It’s miserable as we are driving and will be on the road for two days. Do I need to worry? Is this a normal side effect of prednisone that will go away after I’m off it?

October 11, 2020
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Answer Summary

Members responded to concerns about incomplete bladder emptying after starting prednisone, with several sharing that the medication increases... Read more

Members responded to concerns about incomplete bladder emptying after starting prednisone, with several sharing that the medication increases urination frequency and raises the risk of urinary tract infections, though experiences varied widely and most had not personally dealt with this issue. Several members offered practical strategies including drinking plenty of water to flush bacteria, trying unsweetened cranberry juice or vitamin C, wearing breathable clothing, and considering whether estrogen cream might help if UTI tests come back negative. A recurring theme was the importance of following up with a doctor or urologist if symptoms persist, staying hydrated, and understanding that symptoms often improve once the prednisone dose decreases or the course ends.

A myRAteam Member

I have been on prednisone for a while too Drink lots of water and your problem should clear up I drink anywhere from one to two gallons of water every day so i go very often to the bathroom. I make a juice out of lemons, oranges and ginger roots. Boil them in a big pot for about two hours. let it cool and sting it out. I put about one half cup in every glass of my water. Now i have been drinking this for 5 years now and if nothing else I have not had a cold or flu since It is not very good taste but you will get use to it lol it real sour but i stop doing sugar so that's good to me

October 15, 2020
A myRAteam Member

Prednisone UTI
Drink plenty of water helps flush out the bacteria. Cranberry juice unsweeted is good for some people. Make sure you have some breathable clothing and loose you know where 👀. 💁🏾‍♀️
Vitamin C is great helper .
I’ m no Dr., just some home remedies I tried.
Get better and take care. 😊

October 12, 2020
A myRAteam Member

Prednisone makes you at risk for UTIs ,bladder and vaginal infections and thrush but needs treatment

October 11, 2020
A myRAteam Member

Sometimes UTI can still be in your system, I hope you were able to talk to your doctor. If your lab show no UTI, talk to your OB, it could be from needing estrogen cream.

October 13, 2020
A myRAteam Member

Hi Maki,
I have experienced this while taking prednisone. It usually goes away when I stop taking the medication. Drinks lots of water it definitely helps. Hope you feel better soon 💜

October 12, 2020

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