UTIs and When to See a Doctor

If you’ve ever had a UTI, you know it can be extremely uncomfortable. If not, it’s important to know that getting care soon after noticing symptoms is an important step in getting relief. Here’s what to know about UTIs and getting fast and effective treatment from WellCare Urgent Care.

 

 

What is a UTI?

UTI stands for urinary tract infection. There are many different forms and causes of a UTI, but they are generally caused by bacteria that are held within your vagina, genitals, and anus. This bacteria can move to your urethra and then to the bladder. When this happens, it can infect the urinary tract and you can experience a range of symptoms that can negatively affect your daily activities.

What Are the Symptoms of a UTI?

The first sign you’ll usually notice at the onset of a UTI is the urgent need to urinate throughout the day and night. As your UTI progresses, you may notice:

  • Blood in your urine
  • A painful, burning sensation when you pee
  • Pain in your back
  • Fever and chills
  • Cloudy pee with/without a powerful odor

Make sure to note these symptoms when you visit your doctor, since these are commonly asked questions.

When Should I See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor as soon as you begin to experience symptoms of a UTI. If left untreated, UTIs can spread and become a serious health concern. One of the most common causes of UTIs is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can push bacteria into your urinary system. This means your doctor should also test you for common STIs that can be treated at the same time. It’s extremely important to get the care you need, so don’t hesitate to see your doctor no matter the cause of your UTI.

How Are UTIs Treated?

UTIs can be easily treated with antibiotics and over-the-counter pain medications to ease any discomfort. After a full course of antibiotics, most patients see relief. However, it’s important to also prevent future UTIs with the right steps, and your doctor can make sure you understand these. Usually, this includes practicing good hygiene and making sure to urinate after sexual intercourse. Some people, especially women in general, are more prone to getting UTIs than others, so if you have recurrent UTIs, you should talk with your doctor about the right steps to take.

Schedule a Consultation

UTIs are easily treated and prevented with the right steps. To learn more and meet with our team for some expert care, we invite you to contact our Grand Rapids office by calling or filling out our online form.