What Are Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Really?

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can affect any part of your urinary system. Even though UTIs can affect anyone, they are more common in women. It can predominantly impact your bladder, kidneys, urethra and ureters (urinary system). 

If a UTI impacts your bladder or urethra, it can be painful and uncomfortable. Fortunately, such infections usually resolve within a few days with the help of antibiotics. However, if left untreated, a UTI can become more adverse and potentially spread to the kidneys, leading to a bloodstream infection.

What to expect from the best Urinary Tract Infections treatment in London?

The Top Gynaecologists Clinic London has a team of world-class gynaecologists. We excel in diagnosing and providing various Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) treatment in London, including cystitis, urethritis and kidney infections.

Choosing Top Gynaecologists as your healthcare provider will give you exceptional care throughout your journey. Our bespoke gynaecology clinic offers comprehensive services, including state-of-the-art diagnostics and access to friendly specialists.

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections can sometimes develop without you even noticing. But when they do, they often come with recognisable signs and symptoms. Typical symptoms of a UTI include:

• You may feel a burning or stinging sensation when you’re urinating.
• You may notice that you need to pee more often than usual.
• Your urine might appear cloudy, dark, or have a strong odour.
• An urgent feeling of needing to empty your bladder may crop up.
• You may wake up at night multiple times to use the restroom.
• Blood in your urine is a possible sign of a UTI.
• Pain in your lower abdomen or back, just under your ribs, can be a part of the experience.
• You may find that you can only pass small amounts of urine at a specific time.
• When the infection affects the kidneys and ureters, these are called upper UTIs. They can present the symptoms mentioned above. But they can also bring about additional discomfort:
• A high temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above, and you might feel hot and shivery.
• You may experience shivering and chills.
• Nausea and vomiting could be part of the picture.
•  You might feel confused, agitated or restless.

Some specific symptoms you encounter will depend on whether you have an upper or lower UTI. Sometimes, you might experience symptoms of both, as one type of infection can evolve into the other.

Lower UTI symptoms commonly include:

•  The persistent need to urinate more frequently than usual, a constant, dull pain in the pubic region, or pain during urination, also known as dysuria and collectively known as urethral syndrome.
•  Changes in the colour of your urine, such as cloudiness or the presence of blood (haematuria).
• An unpleasant odour in your urine.
•  Back pain.
•  A general feeling of being unwell.

Upper UTI symptoms, on the other hand, include:

• A high body temperature (fever) of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher.
• Vomiting.
• Nausea and sickness.
• Diarrhoea.
• Chills or uncontrollable shivering.

In cases of an upper UTI, you might also experience pain in your side, back, or groin. This pain could worsen during urination and may vary from moderate to severe.

Do you suspect you have a UTI? Are you seeking urinary tract infection treatment in London? It’s quintessential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide ideal guidance and care.

How to diagnose urinary tract infections?

If you presume a urinary tract infection, contact your private gynaecologist in London to discuss your symptoms and medical history and undergo a thorough physical examination.

For many cases, this consultation may be sufficient for your doctor to prescribe antibiotics and provide guidance on managing your condition. In some specific cases, they may recommend waiting 48 hours before starting antibiotics to see if your symptoms resolve with time.

The best private gynaecologist in London performs the following steps to confirm a UTI:

• We’ll examine a sample of your urine to detect the presence of bacteria and white blood cells.
• In some unique cases, a lab will culture your urine to grow bacteria and yeast from your urine sample as quickly as possible. It aids in identifying the specific harmful bacteria and determining the most effective medication for treatment.

If you experience recurrent UTIs, further investigations may be required to uncover the underlying causes. These may include:

• Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to create detailed images of your urinary tract.
• Cystoscopy involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into your urethra and passing it through to your bladder for a closer look.

Should you need any tests or scans, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with The Top Gynaecologists Clinic in London. We offer quick access to additional diagnostics and, if necessary, a comprehensive treatment plan for your journey back to optimal health.

Urinary Tract Infection Treatment in London

Typically, Urinary Tract Infection treatment in London begins with a short course of antibiotics. Most women will need to take antibiotic capsules or tablets for three days. Men, pregnant women, and individuals with more severe symptoms may require a slightly longer course of antibiotics.

Symptoms usually improve within three to five days of starting treatment. It is vital to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better.

Doctors will also discuss strategies to prevent UTIs from recurring. These may include:

• Stay well hydrated by drinking enough fluids.
• Urinate after sexual activity to flush out any bacteria that may have entered your urethra.
• Refrain from using a perfume-bubble bath, soap, or talcum powder around your genital area.
• Opt for cotton underwear instead of synthetic materials like nylon.
• Avoid tight-fitting jeans or trousers, as they trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.

If you experience frequent UTIs, doctors may recommend additional treatments, including:

• Low-dose antibiotics for at least six months, and sometimes longer.
• Take a single dose of antibiotics after sexual activity.
• Use a vaginal cream containing oestrogen if you have gone through menopause.

Top Gynaecologists have experienced consultants specialising in managing UTIs, especially if you suffer from recurrent infections that impact your quality of life and cause uncomfortable symptoms.

Our experience and expertise will help create a personalised treatment plan, ensuring you receive the care you need promptly and with the confidence of being in the most capable hands.

Final Verdict on Urinary Tract Infection Treatment in London

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) arise from bacteria. Bacteria usually enter the urinary tract through the urethra and, less often, through the bloodstream. Sometimes, a UTI shows up without any reason. Things like how well we take care of our hygiene and engaging in sexual activity can play a part, but it’s crucial to understand that UTIs are not the same as STIs. Still, sexual activity can sometimes cause physical irritation.

In men, UTIs may stem from factors like:

• a narrowed urethra (stricture)
• a previous STI, gallstones or bladder stones
• Prostate issues like enlargement (hyperplasia).

You’re in safe hands when you know these details. If you experience UTI symptoms or have recurrent urinary infections, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of the expert doctors. We can help you manage your condition and determine the underlying cause. Contact Top Gynaecologists Clinic through our online booking service or a call.