UTI

What is a UTI?

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTIs) is a reasonably harmless, though painful, condition that many people are too embarrassed to get help for. In some cases ignoring the pain and discomfort can lead to serious complications so it’s important to get it checked out.

The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, the ureter (which connect the kidneys to the bladder), the bladder and the urethra. A UTI is caused when this area becomes over populated with bacteria.  

Although most common in women, because they have shorter urethras then men, it is still possible (although rare) for men and children to get a UTI.  Symptoms are often specific to either the upper or lower areas of the urinary tract. An upper UTI can often be an indicator of more serious complications such as kidney infection and should be seen by a doctor. Any child with a suspected UTI should be seen by a doctor promptly. 

Symptoms of a lower UTI include:

• pain and a burning sensation when you are passing urine 
• the urgency and frequency of urinating
• feeling like your bladder is full and you can’t empty it
• pain in the lower abdomen
• funny smelling urine.

Symptoms of an upper UTI:

• fever and chills 
• nausea and vomiting
• blood in the urine
• pain in the lower abdomen and back.

Pregnancy can often make you more susceptible to a UTI because of hormonal and physical changes, while diabetics are also vulnerable due to higher sugar levels in their blood. Other factors that increase the likelihood of UTIs are being sexually active, changes in the immune system and structural abnormalities in your body.

Treatment

There are a variety of ways to treat an UTI. Our  pharmacists are accredited to provide a 3 day course of the antibiotic Trimethoprim to treat uncomplicated UTI and also may recommend a urinary alkaniser such as Ural.  The pharmacist may determine you need to see your GP for further investigation if the potential infection is deemed complicated or due to another medical condition.