Urinary Tract Infections
27th March 2026
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections that affect the bladder, urethra, or kidneys. They are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract from the gut. Women are more prone to UTIs than men due to their anatomy.
Symptoms include:
Pain or burning sensation during urination.
Frequent or urgent urination.
Cloudy or blood-tinged urine.
Strong-smelling urine.
Lower abdominal pain or pressure.
Sometimes the infection can spread up the urinary tract to the kidneys. This is called pyelonephritis and can be very serious. It causes fever and chills and can lead to sepsis but thankfully it is much rarer than cystitis.
Pyelonephritis (upper urinary tract infections) affects one in 830 people in the UK. Cystitis (lower urinary tract infections) affects up to 50% of women in their lifetime.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66819073
Diagnosis:
At GP Care Now we will test a urine sample for bacteria and blood cells (urinalysis).
The urine may also be sent to the laboratory where a urine culture may also be performed to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
Treatment:
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for UTIs. Often a 3 day course is all that is needed but sometimes a longer (7 day course) is necessary.
Drinking plenty of water is essential to flush out the infection.
Prevention:
Wipe front to back after using the toilet.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
Empty your bladder regularly.
Avoid prolonged exposure to urinary irritants, such as bubble baths.
If you are sexually active, urinate after sex.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/
For further information or help with urine infections make an appointment with one of the doctors at GP Care Now today.