UTIs are a common issue affecting almost everyone including men, women, young and old, but don’t worry— Crest Pharmacy is here to help you feel better fast with the Pharmacy First service.

If you’re a woman aged between 16 and 64 we can see you at one of our local pharmacies to offer you treatment and support for your symptoms.

Our pharmacies are open late – often until 9pm – meaning you can get fast and effective treatment whenever you need it, without the need for a GP appointment.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

UTIs can be pretty uncomfortable, they can make you feel unwell and make you feel like you need to be constantly near a toilet, which isn’t good for day to day life. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, we recommend visiting your nearest Crest Pharmacy:

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• A burning sensation when urinating
• Frequently passing small amounts of urine
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain, especially in women
• Blood in the urine (If you have this symptom get an urgent GP appointment or call 111)

If you’re unsure about any of your symptoms our pharmacists are available to help and can direct you to a GP if needed.

What Causes a UTI?

Most UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urethra where it impacts your bladder and causes the symptoms typically associated with a UTI. Here are a few common causes and ways this happens.

Personal Hygiene: Not wiping from front to back can spread bacteria into the urethra, which is why UTIs are more common in women.
Sexual Intercourse: It can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. Urinating after intercourse can help reduce the risk.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or diabetes can increase the likelihood of UTIs.

If you’re having repeated and frequent UTIs we recommend speaking to your GP and discussing the possible causes that could be triggering your UTI’s. They can go through ways to reduce the amount of UTIs your experiencing and rule out any underlying causes.

For Quick UTI Treatment – Use Pharmacy First

It’s not a guarantee that you always need to see a doctor for a UTI. At Crest Pharmacy we offer convenient and effective treatments through the Pharmacy First scheme.

To access Pharmacy First you can book an appointment online and we’ll call you back within 20 minutes to speak to you about your symptoms and help you. If you’d rather speak to us in person you can visit one of our locations to speak to our friendly pharmacists. Find your nearest Crest Pharmacy here.

We can provide pain relievers like paracetamol and ibuprofen, as well as powder sachets to reduce the burning sensation when urinating. These sachets are particularly helpful for cystitis. Just mix the powder with water and drink.

If your symptoms are severe or persistent, we can prescribe antibiotics without you needing to see your GP first. so you can start to feel better quicker.

Can I do anything to help a UTI at home?

If you’re looking for ways to help your symptoms while you wait for a GP or pharmacy appointment there are some simple things you can do. For mild UTIs it’s important to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. You can also take paracetamol to reduce any pain you’re experiencing and bring your temperature down.

Some people do find that drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry products can reduce symptoms and help with UTIs but this hasn’t been proven. Also, be aware that these products can contain a lot of sugar and if you’re taking warfarin you should avoid cranberry products.

When to See Your GP or Visit A&E

Sometimes, you’ll need more than pharmacy treatment to treat the symptoms of a UTI. It’s important that you see a GP if:

• It’s your first UTI
• Your child has symptoms
• You’re a man with symptoms
• You’re pregnant with symptoms
• You’re caring for an older person with symptoms
• You have symptoms after surgery
• Your symptoms worsen or don’t improve in 2 days
• Your symptoms return after treatment

Seek urgent care and go to A&E if you or someone you care for has:

• A very high or low temperature
• Confusion or dizziness
• Pain in the lower tummy or back
• Blood in the urine

If you’re worried and can’t reach your GP, our pharmacists can help assess your symptoms and direct you to the right care.

We’re always here to help! Visit us at one of our stores in Tamworth, Birmingham, Kidderminster or other locations, or book an appointment online to speak with our pharmacists at a time to suit you.

Common Questions About UTIs

How can I differentiate between a UTI and other types of infections with similar symptoms?

UTIs often cause a strong urge to urinate, a burning sensation, and cloudy urine. If you’re unsure, visit us at the pharmacy for an assessment or contact your GP.

Are there symptoms that indicate a more severe UTI that requires immediate medical attention?

Yes, high fever, back pain, or blood in urine are signs of a severe infection. Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of these symptoms.

What other lifestyle factors, besides hygiene and sexual activity, can increase the risk of UTIs?

Poor hydration, holding urine for too long, and certain contraceptives can increase UTI risk. If you’re having frequent UTIs we recommend speaking to your GP to rule causes out.

How long does it typically take for symptoms to improve after starting treatment?

Symptoms usually improve within a few days of starting antibiotics. If they carry on after you’ve started treatment or they get worse we recommend speaking to your GP and getting further help.

How does the Pharmacy First scheme work in terms of cost and accessibility for patients?

The Pharmacy First scheme offers free advice and treatment for minor conditions, including UTIs, without a GP appointment.

Can I use the Pharmacy First scheme if I have recurring UTIs?

Yes, you can still use the scheme, but we might refer you to a GP for further investigation.