You’ve been here before — in the bathroom. In fact, you were here 15 minutes ago. Frequent urge to go, burning when you go, and pain. Ugh. It could be a urinary tract infection (UTI). 40% of women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime. Here's what you need to know about urinary symptoms and how to get care.
What are common urinary symptoms?
When bacteria travels and infects your urinary tract you can have a urinary infection. They can happen to anyone, at any age. Symptoms that could indicate a UTI include:
- Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
- Frequent urination
- Feeling the need to urinate even though your bladder is empty
- Blood in your urine
- Pressure or cramping in your groin area
How should you get care?
For the vast majority of those who occasionally suffer, you can skip the cost and hassle of going somewhere to be seen in-person and use First Stop Health Telemedicine instead. Request a visit online to get treatment in minutes, 24/7.
However, if you're experiencing any of the following, you should be seen in-person.
- You're a male (of any age).
- You're a female under the age of 18.
- You've had 3 UTIs in the last 12 months and haven't yet seen a doctor.
- You have a history of kidney stones.
- You have flank (kidney) pain.
When left untreated, UTIs can lead to a kidney infection. Symptoms of a kidney infection include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Lower back pain
- Nausea and/ or vomiting
If you think you are experiencing a kidney infection, you should be seen in-person at an urgent care or ER.
How can you prevent UTIs?
There are a few ways to prevent UTIs. They include:
- Urinating after sexual activity
- Wiping from front to back after using the restroom (to minimize the spread of bacteria)
- Staying properly hydrated
Talk to a Doctor
If your employer or school provides you with First Stop Health telemedicine, our doctors are here to provide convenient, compassionate care. Log in or get the app to talk to a doctor in MINUTES.
