UTI management and Treatment : How Ringmer pharmacy can help
Welcome to Ringmer pharmacy blog on managing uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) in women as part of Pharmacy First service. In this blog we will look into causes for UTI, symptoms suggesting someone could have UTI and most importantly, how Ringmer Pharmacy through NHS-funded Pharmacy First Service, aim to provide accessible advice and prompt treatment
What is an UTI?
Understanding UTIs: UTIs are common among women, causing discomfort and inconvenience. UTI is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary system. This includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Women are more susceptible to UTI as they have shorter length urethra than man. This make easier for the bacteria to ascend into the urinary tract and cause UTI.
Under the Pharmacy First programme, Women between 16 and 65 years suffering from an Uncomplicated UTI can seek advice and treatment directly from one of our pharmacists.
What are the common symptoms of an uncomplicated UTI?
If you have any of the following symptoms, you may have an uncomplicated UTI
- Burning pain when passing urine
- Needing to pass urine more often than normal at night
- Urine is Cloudy to the naked eye
Where can I get UTI treatment near me in Lewes and how can Ringmer Pharmacy help?
I you are a women aged between 16 and 65 years and suffering from any of the UTI symptoms, you can Visit Ringmer Pharmacy in Ringmer, Lewes, and speak to us about your symptoms. Our experienced pharmacists at Ringmer Pharmacy can provide personalised advice and ensue you have the correct information needed to manage and prevent UTIs. During your visit, the pharmacist will carry out a brief assessment in the private consultation room to find out if the symptoms are suggestive of an uncomplicated UTI. The pharmacist can also supply NHS-funded antibiotics and provide guidance on how to take them if this was clinically appropriate.
Why should you use Pharmacy First service from Ringmer Pharmacy?
At Ringmer pharmacy, our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing more accessible and convenient healthcare services tailored to local population needs. Pharmacy first service has been set up to ensure eligible patients receive prompt advice and/or treatment for common conditions including UTIs from the community Pharmacy instead of visiting GP. By choosing to visit Ringmer pharmacy first, you can get the appropriate clinical advice and support you need on the same day. Following your consultation with the pharmacist, if required, you will get signposted to your GP.
Our Pharmacist will generally refer following patients to the GP,
- If you are Pregent or breastfeeding
- If you had 2 UTI episodes in last 6 months or 3 episodes in last 12 months
- If you have a urinary catheter in place
- If you suffer from back or loin pain and if you have fever
This is list on an exhaustive list and our pharmacist will check suitability for an antibiotic supply or onward referral to GP or other healthcare professions.
How can I prevent future episodes of UTIs?
In addition to help you manage your current UTI, Ringmer Pharmacy can also offer valuable insights into preventive measures.
Below are some practical tips :
- Stay Hydrated: You should aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out bacteria. This is really important in maintaining urinary tract health.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Adopting good hygiene practices, especially after using the bathroom, can help reduce the risk of infection. Wiping from front to back and urinating before and after sexual activity are important habits to minimise chances of infection
- Urinate Regularly: Bacteria can thrive when you hold your urine for a long period of time. Urinate regularly to help prevent the accumulation of bacteria in the urinary tract and avoid holding your urine for extended period of time
Conclusion/Summary
Our Pharmacy First Service for uncomplicated UTIs is designed to empower women with timely advice and NHS-funded treatment. We take pride in the role our pharmacists play in promoting accessible healthcare, ensuring you can confidently manage your well-being.
This service promotes swift access to treatment, preventing the need for a GP appointment in many cases. Lifestyle adjustments, hygiene practices, and staying hydrated are essential aspects they discuss to reduce the likelihood of future UTIs.
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