Urine Infection
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) can be painful and uncomfortable. This is a common infection that is caused when part of the urinary tract becomes infected, usually by bacteria that enters through the urethra or occasionally through the bloodstream.
The UTI will often get better on its own within a few days or is easily treated with a course of antibiotics.
At IPSA you can be seen immediately when your symptoms start. You will be thoroughly examined and given an assessment to find out whether you are presenting with a lower or upper urinary infection.
A lower UTI is an infection in the bladder and urethra part of the urinary tract. An upper UTI is infection in the kidney and ureters part of the urinary tract. Upper UTIs can be more serious than lower UTIs because there is a risk of kidney damage.
UTI Treatment at IPSA
Urinary tract infections can deteriorate into more serious kidney infections if left untreated.
Our doctors can see patients with the first signs of a UTI, patients with chronic urine infections and patients who have used over-the-counter products and whose symptoms have not improved. In all cases we can start treatment immediately.
During your consultation at IPSA, you will be made aware of conservative measures to reduce or minimise your chances of urinary tract infections.
Our doctors will check your urine for eight different components including ketones, bloods, sugar and white cells.
Antibiotics are usually recommended for women who have recurring UTIs. Sometimes we will suggest long-term use of antibiotics to help prevent the infection from returning.
When Should I Seek Medical Advice?
Starting antibiotics early often reduces the pain and distress associated with a UTI, and also prevents a lower infection from proceeding to a more serious upper infection.
If you experience any of the following, contact IPSA for an immediate appointment with our doctors:
- You develop a high temperature.
- Your symptoms suddenly get worse.
- You are pregnant.
- You have diabetes.
- There is blood in your urine.
- You are suffering back pain.
- Your urine infection is causing you to vomit.
- Your symptoms have not cleared up after 48 hours.
When women have a urine infection, they usually know immediately and diagnosis is based mainly on clinical symptoms. However in the NHS you are often not able to book an immediate appointment with your GP, and an appointment in two weeks is often not the answer you are looking for.
Your doctor at IPSA will discuss what to do if your symptoms change in any way and will be available to offer further advice if you need help during your recovery process.
Have peace of mind knowing that when you see an IPSA doctor, your symptoms will always be taken seriously and the best medication provided, allowing the fastest recovery possible.
Contact IPSA for a same-day appointment or book a consultation online.
