Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health concern that can cause discomfort and disrupt your daily routine. While they are usually straightforward to treat, UTI symptoms can sometimes overlap into other conditions, leaving you wondering if it’s something else entirely.
In this blog, our virtual doctors will define a UTI, explore the common symptoms and treatment options, and how to know when it might be something else.
What is a UTI?
A UTI is an infection that affects any part of your urinary system, such as the bladder (cystitis), kidneys, urethra, or ureters. Most UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra, causing inflammation and discomfort. UTIs are more common in women due to the shorter length of the female urethra, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder easier.
A common type of UTI is cystitis, an infection or inflammation of the bladder. While many UTIs are mild and easy to treat, leaving one untreated can cause complications like a kidney infection. This makes it vital to seek prompt cystitis infection treatment.
Common Symptoms of a UTI
UTI symptoms can vary, but the following are the most common:
- A burning sensation or pain when urinating
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Passing little urine
- Coudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine
- Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or back
- Feeling tired, unwell, or feverish (in more severe cases)
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice to confirm the diagnosis and begin treatment.
How to Treat a UTI
You can treat a mild UTI at home with simple home remedies, such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and using over-the-counter pain relief. However, most cases require antibiotics to completely clear the infection.
At Eirdoc, we’ve made it easy to access treatment for UTIs, including cystitis treatment antibiotics. With our simple GP online consultation service, you can book a GP appointment online at your convenience, consult with a trusted virtual doctor, and get your prescription – sent either to your local pharmacy or right to your door.
Signs It Might Be Something Else
UTIs share symptoms with several other conditions, so it’s important to be aware of when it might be something different.
Kidney stones:
Sharp pain in the back or sides, blood in urine, and nausea can all indicate kidney stones rather than a UTI.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs):
Burning when urinating, pain, or unusual discharge could point to an STI.
Interstitial cystitis:
Chronic bladder pain or pressure without any infection may indicate interstitial cystitis.
Vaginal infections:
Symptoms like irritation or unusual discharge could be caused by bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection.
Quick, Reliable, and Convenient UTI Treatment with Eirdoc
Although UTIs are common and easily treatable, they should not be ignored. Understanding the symptoms and seeking the right treatment is key to managing the infection and preventing complications. At Eirdoc, we provide quick and convenient access to expert care, offering tailored cystitis infection treatment to help you recover quickly.
With our GP online consultation service, you can consult a virtual doctor and get a prescription online, all from the comfort of your home. Don’t let a UTI disrupt your life – take control of your health with Eirdoc today.
Book your consultation today to start feeling better.