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for Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that occurs in any part of the urinary system (the bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra). Kidney involvement indicates a more serious infection, while bladder and urethral infections are the more common types. Women are more likely to be affected by this condition than men.

Urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria such as E. coli and other gastrointestinal bacteria pass through the urethra into the urinary bladder, where they multiply. When the immune system fails to identify these bacterial invaders and fight against them, the resulting bacterial multiplication leads to a urinary tract infection.

You may wonder if the symptoms you have are indicative of a urinary tract infection. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may be affected with a UTI:

• Pain on urination
• Burning sensation on urination.
• Discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Pelvic pressure.
• Hematuria (blood in the urine).
• Discharge.
• Cloudy urine.
• Strong-smelling urine.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Chills.
• High fever.
• Tremors.
• Back pain or side pain.

Urinary tract infections are treatable, particularly if managed immediately. However, treatment and successful resolution does not mean you may never have a UTI again. UTIs are quite common, and can occur several times throughout the course of your life. Minor UTIs may even be resolved on their own without any need for treatment. Most UTIs will, however, require a course of antibiotics for treatment, symptomatic management, and prevention of complications.

You can avail certain prescription drugs for urinary tract infection via iCliniq First. However, please note that we only prescribe specific drugs, and only for eligible patients. For more information on available drug options or your eligibility for them, consult a doctor at iCliniq First.

Some over-the-counter medications may be available to you like Paracetamol, Phenazopyridine, and Ibuprofen. However, do not use every product you come across because these may only provide relief from the pain associated with your UTI and will not help in the elimination of the causative bacteria. The correct management and treatment option for a UTI is a course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor and this should not be delayed as long-standing untreated UTI can cause severe complications. Consider consulting a doctor for prescription medications that will work for your condition better than over-the-counter products.

Treatment for urinary tract infection may vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition, your general health status, and the type of bacteria present in your urine. If you’re concerned or confused, speak with one of our doctors who will provide you with an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. If you have been using over-the-counter products or ignoring your symptoms hoping that they will go away, with no signs of improvement even after a few weeks, reach out to a healthcare provider immediately to ensure a healthy urinary system.

Getting rid of a urinary tract infection would require a course of antibiotics and pain medications. However, there are some things you can do to speed up the process or prevent infections. These include:

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out the infectious bacteria quicker.
• Avoiding drinks that irritate the bladder such as citrus juices, alcohol, and caffeine.
• Increasing Vitamin C intake since it acidifies the urine and reduces the chances of repeated urinary tract infections.
• Consumption of probiotics that improve gut health and immunity, and reduce reinfection chances.
• Heating Pad: A warm heating pad can reduce bladder discomfort when applied to the abdomen.

Sexual activity can cause a UTI to develop or worsen, but cannot cause the transmission of a UTI. When people engage in sexual activity, the penetrative force can push the bacteria in and around the genital areas into the urethra, thus causing or worsening existing UTIs. In addition, sexual activity while suffering from a UTI can cause pain, irritation, and pressure on the bladder.