Learn about UTIs and book an appointment with an Easy Pharmacy online pharmacist to get further consultation on treatments and prescriptions.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys (Pyelonephritis), the bladder (Cystitis), and the urethra (Urethritis). Cystitis is the most common form of UTI and is more likely to occur in women due to the shorter urethra and its proximity to the anus, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. This article will focus on cystitis, which is the type of UTI we are referring to going forward.
UTIs are mainly caused by E. coli bacteria entering the urethra. Common risk factors include:
Female anatomy (shorter urethra)
Certain medications (e.g., radiation therapy)
Hygiene products (can cause irritation)
Birth control (diaphragms, spermicides)
Catheter use (long-term or medical procedures)
Health conditions (diabetes, enlarged prostate)
STIs (herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia)
Sexual activity (introduces bacteria)
Pregnancy & menopause (hormonal changes)
Weakened immune system (higher infection risk)
UTIs can be painful and inconvenient. Common symptoms include:
In more severe cases, you may also experience:
UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics to eliminate the infection as quickly as possible. If left untreated, UTIs can lead to serious complications like kidney damage, especially if the infection spreads to the kidneys.
For chronic or recurrent UTIs (two or more infections within 6 months, or three or more infections in a year), long-term antibiotics may be necessary.
To ease symptoms, you can take paracetamol up to four times a day. Some people also find relief with potassium citrate sachets, which help reduce urine acidity.
If you are a woman and experiencing a UTI, an Easy Pharmacy pharmacist can offer advice and treatment online, saving you a visit to your GP. This service is part of the UK’s Pharmacy First program and is free of charge.
Everything You Need to Know About Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in the bladder, kidneys, or urethra. It can cause pain when urinating and a frequent urge to go to the toilet.
Common symptoms include burning pain when urinating, needing to pee often, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and lower belly pain.
UTIs happen when bacteria enter the urinary tract, often from improper hygiene, holding urine too long, or after sexual activity.
Mild UTIs may go away on their own by drinking lots of water, but doctors often prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection quickly.
See a doctor if your symptoms don’t improve in a few days, get worse, or if you have fever, back pain, or blood in your urine.
EasyPharmacy provides advice & NHS-funded treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women.
9011078
5326877
2050606
© 2025| Easy Pharmacy | Curated by TOPKLICKZ
Superintendent pharmacy: Dilip Modhvadia 2050606
