When to See a Doctor About a UTI
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in both men and women, but they’re particularly likely to be a recurring issue for women. UTIs cause uncomfortable and potentially embarrassing urinary system symptoms including a frequent urge to urinate and a burning sensation when urinating.
Do you think you might have a UTI? As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional to quickly clear up symptoms and prevent potential complications. The team at Care Fast Urgent Care of Burbank, California, can diagnose your UTI and provide effective treatments and prevention strategies to keep your urinary tract healthy.
When you have a UTI
Your urinary system includes your bladder, kidneys, and urethra. A UTI is an infection in any part of your urinary system. These infections occur when harmful bacteria enter your urinary tract and begin to multiply.
If you’re developing a UTI, you could experience symptoms such as:
- Strong or frequent urges to urinate
- Burning sensations during urination
- Cloudy, pink, reddish, or brownish urine
- Blood in your urine
- Strong or unpleasant odors in your urine
- In women, pelvic pain
You’re at increased risk of a UTI if you’re a woman (due to the shorter length of the female urethra), sexually active, or going through menopause. Certain types of birth control and a weak immune system can also make you more prone to UTIs.
Should you see a doctor for a UTI?
You should definitely see a doctor if you suspect you have a urinary tract infection. You may be able to relieve a mild UTI by staying well-hydrated for a few days, but it’s best to seek a doctor’s opinion.
Left untreated, UTIs can become serious, with persistent uncomfortable symptoms and potential complications. UTIs can become recurrent, can damage your kidneys, and can cause life-threatening infections. UTIs also can lead to complications related to pregnancy and, in men, can cause urethral narrowing.
As soon as you start to suspect an infection, get to Care Fast Urgent Care and get checked out. Receiving the right care right away is the best way to protect yourself from UTI-related complications. We diagnose your UTI with a urine test and can also perform a physical exam and other testing if needed.
Once we confirm that you have a UTI, we can recommend the appropriate treatment, such as prescription medication or, for severe cases, IV antibiotic treatments. Be sure to finish the complete course of your antibiotic medication as prescribed.
The Care Fast Urgent Care team offers walk-in testing, treatment, and care for urinary tract infections. Come in to see us today if you have concerns about a potential UTI.
