Understanding and Treating UTIs – A Pharmacist’s Guide

Understanding and Treating UTIs – A Pharmacist’s Guide

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a condition that impacts the urinary system, including the bladder, ureters, urethra, and kidneys. It’s important to be aware of the causes, symptoms and treatments for UTI’s, and this is what we break down for you in this article.

UTIs primarily affect the lower urinary tract, which includes the urethra and bladder. Women are more likely to develop a UTI compared to men, and a bladder infection can be painful and troublesome. However, severe complications can occur if the infection spreads to the kidneys.

Note: We offer UTI treatments in our pharmacy privately without needing to see your GP. Find out more here.

Recognising UTI Signs & Symptoms

Identifying the signs and symptoms of a UTI can be challenging. However, when they do present themselves, they may include:

• Constant urge to urinate
• Pelvic pain and discomfort around the pubic bone in women
• Strong-smelling urine
• Frequent urination with small amounts of urine
• Blood in the urine
• Burning and itching sensation while urinating

In older individuals, UTIs are often overlooked and mistaken for other existing conditions.

Causes of Urinary Tract Infections

UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and start multiplying in the bladder.

Although the urinary system is designed to prevent bacteria from entering, these defences sometimes fail, allowing bacteria to grow and develop into a severe infection.

Common UTIs primarily affect women and usually involve the bladder and urethra. The two types of UTIs include:

• Bladder infection (cystitis) – Typically caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), bacteria found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Other bacteria can also cause this type of UTI.
• Urethra infection (urethritis) – Occurs when gastrointestinal bacteria spread from the anus to the urethra. STIs like gonorrhoea, syphilis, mycoplasma, and chlamydia can also cause urethritis due to the proximity of the female urethra to the vagina.

Risk Factors for UTIs

Many women experience more than one UTI in their lifetime. Risk factors for UTIs in women include:

• Female anatomy. A shorter urethra increases the likelihood of a UTI since bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder.
• Certain types of birth control. Using spermicidal agents and diaphragms can raise the risk of a UTI.
• Menopause. A decline in circulating estrogen can lead to changes in the urinary tract, increasing susceptibility.
• Sexual activity. Having new sexual partners can increase the chances of a UTI. Sexually active women tend to have more UTIs than those who aren’t sexually active.

Preventing UTIs

To prevent a UTI, consider the following recommendations:

• Wipe from front to back. This reduces the risk of spreading bacteria from the anal area to the vagina and urethra.
• Empty your bladder immediately after intercourse to prevent bacterial buildup in the vaginal area.
• Drink plenty of water and other fluids to urinate more frequently, dilute urine, and flush out bacteria.
• Avoid potentially irritating feminine products like deodorants and sprays, which can cause infections.
• Choose an alternative birth control method. Diaphragms, un-lubricated condoms, or spermicide-treated condoms can contribute to bacterial growth, so consider other options.

Carters Pharmacy in Islington, London – UTI Treatment Pharmacy

The primary treatment for UTIs is antibiotics, but taking preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing an infection.

Visit Carters Pharmacy in Islington, London today to receive a diagnosis and treatment for your UTI condition. Or, you can fill out a consultation form online now and order a product that we will then deliver to you, or you can collect in our store.

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This blog post was written on behalf of Carters Chemist by Pharmacy Mentor.