What to do if you have UTI (urinary tract infection).

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common type of infection that affects millions of people every year. So how do you get a UTI? UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. As a pharmacist, I frequently interact with patients who have UTIs and can provide important information about the prevention and treatment of this common condition.

Symptoms of UTIs

The most common symptoms of UTIs include:

• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urination
• Blood in the urine
• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or back
• Fever and chills (in severe cases)

Preventing UTIs

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing a UTI:

1. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria out of your urinary tract.
2. Practice good hygiene: Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom can help prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urinary tract.
3. Urinate frequently: Holding in urine for too long can allow bacteria to grow, so it’s important to empty your bladder regularly.
4. Avoid irritating products: Certain products, such as douches, powders, and perfumes, can irritate the urethra and increase the risk of infection.
5. Consider cranberry supplements: Some studies have shown that cranberry supplements may help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract.

Treatment of UTIs

If you develop a UTI, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent complications. If you’ve had a UTI in the past and are experiencing symptoms of a UTI again, contact a pharmacist through RxToday.ca and speak to a pharmacist for a virtual assessment and prescription. A pharmacist may prescribe a UTI treatment you can take at home such as UTI medicine / antibiotics.

Always remember: It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Failure to complete the full course of antibiotics can lead to recurrent infections and antibiotic resistance.