Some people are at a higher risk of developing complications if they have a urine infection. If you fall into one of the following groups, then you should see a doctor if you think that you need urine infection treatment:
- You are pregnant
- You are a man (as men are less likely to develop UTIs)
- You have other health problems, particularly if they affect your kidneys
It is also important to seek medical advice if a child or an older person seems to have a urine infection, as younger and older people are more vulnerable to infections. If you or the person you care for are in one of these high risk groups, you are more likely to need antibiotics to help eliminate the urine infection.
Are Your Symptoms More Severe?
- Last more than a few days
- Return after treatment or keep coming back
- Are very severe, particularly if you have a very high fever, a bad pain in your back or sides, blood in your urine, vomiting or diarrhoea, as the infection could be in your kidneys
It is also a good idea to see a doctor if you haven’t had a urinary tract infection before or if you aren‘t sure that you have a UTI. It can be difficult to recognise the symptoms, especially when you’re having them for the first time. The doctor can confirm what’s wrong and give you some advice on urine infection treatment. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe a short course of antibiotics to help clear the infection.