A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria (usually from the bowel) enters the urinary tract via the urethra. The bacteria can cause infection in the urethra, bladder or the kidneys which lead to symptoms that are often very painful and unpleasant. It can develop into a more serious infection if it is not treated as soon as possible.
Signs and symptoms:
Usually you would experience two or more of the following -
painful, burning sensation when urinating
urgency to urinate
urinating a lot more frequently
only passing small amount of urine
sensation of incomplete emptying after urinating
discomfort above pubic area
Treatments available in the pharmacy:
Our pharmacist can undergo a short consultation with you in a private consultation room to determine what treatment suits best or recommend that you visit your doctor.
Antibiotic: Pharmacist can give you a course of Trimethoprim tablets for 3 days without a prescription if you meet the criteria.
Urinary Alkalisers: Such as Ural sachets can help relieve the burning sensation when urinating. Also check with the pharmacist if you are on other medication as this may interact with this product.
Probiotics: Probiotics containing lactobacillus acidophilus can be beneficial for gastrointestinal health. It may also help reduce the rate of recurrence of UTIs in women prone to these infections.
When you might be referred to your doctor:
fever and hot or cold feeling
vomiting and feeling nauseous
pain on sides of lower back (over the kidney area)
smelly or cloudy urine
blood in urine
unusual vaginal discharge
feeling particularly unwell
Preventing UTIs:
drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration
take time to empty your bladder as completely as possible every time you pass urine
go to the toilet as soon as you feel the need, do not hold on
wash and urinate after sexual activity to flush away any bacteria
wipe front to back after going to the toilet
wear cotton underpants
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