Urinary Tract Infections

UTI Advice & Treatment in Hornchurch

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) can be more than just a nuisance; it can be painful, disruptive, and uncomfortable. At Healthcare Pharmacy, we provide expert UTI advice in our Hornchurch pharmacy, helping you get back to feeling like yourself without the wait for a GP appointment. As part of the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, our qualified pharmacists in Hornchurch can now assess and, where clinically appropriate, provide prescription treatment for uncomplicated UTIs in women aged 16 to 64.

Professional UTI Pharmacy Consultation in Hornchurch

You don’t need a referral to access our UTI pharmacy consultation in Hornchurch. When you visit us, you will have a private, confidential conversation with a pharmacist in our consultation room.

What is Urinary Tract Infection?

Bacterial infections of the urinary tract are referred to as Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). These include bladder (cystitis), Kidneys or the urethra (urethritis). UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, this decision is made by a healthcare professional following an assessment of the symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of UTI?

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can have a range of signs and symptoms, these include:

  • Increased frequency of going to the toilet to pass urine than usual.
  • The sensation of burning or pain whilst passing urine (dysuria)
  • Going more frequently to the toilet to pass urine during the night than usual (nocturia)
  • Needing to pee more urgently or suddenly than usual
  • Blood in urine
  • Pain in the lower abdomen or your back, just below the ribs
  • Feeling hot or having a high temperature
  • Feeling very cold, temperature below 36 degrees celsius
  • Cloudy looking pee

Your pee may also look dark and smell. If you don’t have any other symptoms, this can also happen if you are not drinking enough fluids.

Expert tips for managing a UTI at home

  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help “flush” bacteria out of your system.
  • Pain Relief: Over the counter paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage lower tummy pain.
  • Cystitis Relief: Sodium citrate sachets can help make your urine less acidic, reducing the “stinging” sensation.
  • Avoid Irritants: Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and scented soaps around the genital area while you recover.

Book An Appointment

Private Clinical Consultation

Speak with an experienced pharmacist for personalised healthcare advice based on your medical history and individual requirements.

Book an appointment

Select a time that suits you and book your consultation quickly with our simple online appointment system.

Expert Pharmacy Guidance

Receive professional advice, treatment recommendations and ongoing support from our knowledgeable pharmacy team.

Our clinical assessment includes:

  • Symptom Review: Identifying key signs like pain when peeing, urgency, or cloudy urine.
  • Eligibility Check: This service is specifically for non-pregnant women aged 16 to 64.
  • Prescription Treatment: If your symptoms are moderate to severe, we can provide a 3-day course of antibiotics (such as nitrofurantoin) directly if appropriate.
  • GP Coordination: We will notify your GP of any treatment provided to ensure your medical records are kept up to date.
UTI

Frequently Asked Question

Can a pharmacist give me antibiotics for a UTI?

Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, if you are a woman aged 16 64 and have a confirmed uncomplicated UTI, our pharmacists can supply the necessary antibiotics without you needing to see a GP first. Normal NHS prescription charges apply unless you are exempt.

Most women find that their symptoms begin to improve within 24 to 48 hours of starting antibiotics. It is vital to finish the entire 3 day course, even if you feel better sooner, to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

If you are pregnant and suspect a UTI, you must see your GP or midwife. UTIs in pregnancy require a different clinical pathway and more frequent monitoring to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

If you develop a high fever, nausea, vomiting, or pain in your lower back/sides, the infection may have spread to your kidneys. This is considered a “complicated” UTI and requires urgent medical attention from a GP or an Urgent Care Centre.

Prevention is key. We recommend drinking plenty of fluids, wiping from front to back, emptying your bladder as soon as possible after sex, and wearing cotton underwear. If you suffer from recurrent UTIs (2 in six months or 3 in a year), our pharmacist will refer you to your GP for further investigation.

Professional Disclaimer

The information on this page is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for a consultation with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Suitability for any treatment or service will be assessed on an individual basis by our pharmacy team, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. If you have concerns about your health, please speak to your GP, contact NHS 111, or, in an emergency, call 999.

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