How to Get Rid of a UTI in 24 Hours: A Guide from West Bank Pharmacy

Get UTI Treatment in Widnes

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and often painful condition that many people experience at least once in their lives. At West Bank Pharmacy in Widnes, we understand the discomfort and inconvenience that UTIs can cause, and we are here to help you find relief quickly and effectively. Through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, we provide access to treatment and expert advice, so you can get back to feeling your best as soon as possible. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to get rid of a UTI in 24 hours, along with prevention tips and the services we offer.

Understanding UTIs

A urinary tract infection is an infection in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract—the bladder and the urethra. Common symptoms of a UTI include:

A strong, persistent urge to urinate
A burning sensation when urinating
Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
Urine that appears cloudy or has a strong odour
Pelvic pain in women, especially in the centre of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone

Causes of UTIs

UTIs are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra and multiplying in the bladder. The most common bacteria responsible for UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in the gastrointestinal tract. Women are at higher risk of developing a UTI due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria quicker access to the bladder.

How to Get Rid of a UTI in 24 Hours

While it may not be possible to completely eliminate a UTI in just 24 hours, you can significantly reduce symptoms and start the healing process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Hydrate Aggressively: Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out bacteria from your urinary tract. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day. This will help to dilute your urine and encourage frequent urination, which can help clear the infection more quickly.

Urinate Frequently: Don’t hold in your urine. Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge. Frequent urination helps to expel bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the concentration of bacteria and helping to alleviate symptoms.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: To manage pain and discomfort, consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. These medications can help reduce inflammation and provide relief from the burning sensation and pelvic pain associated with UTIs.

Use a Heating Pad: Applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen can help soothe the pain and discomfort. The heat can ease muscle tension and reduce bladder pressure, providing temporary relief from UTI symptoms.

Seek Professional Treatment: The most effective way to treat a UTI quickly is with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. At West Bank Pharmacy, we offer treatment through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, which allows you to get the necessary medication without having to see a GP. Our pharmacists can assess your symptoms, provide advice, and prescribe antibiotics if appropriate.

Prevention Tips

Preventing UTIs is crucial to avoid the discomfort and disruption they cause. Here are some tips to help reduce your risk:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, to help keep your urinary tract clean and free of bacteria.

Practice Good Hygiene: After using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anal region from spreading to the urethra. Additionally, keep the genital area clean and dry.

Urinate After Intercourse: Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. Urinating after intercourse helps to flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced, reducing the risk of infection.

Avoid Irritating Products: Avoid using harsh soaps, douches, and feminine hygiene sprays in the genital area, as these can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear to allow your genital area to breathe and stay dry. Tight clothing and synthetic fabrics can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria.

How West Bank Pharmacy Can Help

At West Bank Pharmacy in Widnes, we are committed to providing convenient and accessible healthcare services to our community. Through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, we can offer treatment for minor ailments, including UTIs, without the need for a GP appointment. Here’s how we can help:

Professional Assessment: Our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms and determine whether you need antibiotics or other treatments. This quick assessment can save you time and help you get the right treatment faster.

Prescription Medications: If necessary, our pharmacists can prescribe antibiotics to treat your UTI. These medications are essential for clearing the infection and preventing complications.

Expert Advice: We provide expert advice on managing your symptoms and preventing future UTIs. Our pharmacists can recommend products, lifestyle changes, and hygiene practices to help keep you healthy.

Follow-Up Support: We offer follow-up support to ensure your treatment is effective and that you are on the path to recovery. If you have any concerns or questions, our team is here to assist you.

Get UTI Treatment in Widnes

UTIs are uncomfortable and can disrupt your daily life, but with the right approach, you can find relief quickly. By following the steps outlined above, you can start to alleviate symptoms and begin the healing process within 24 hours. At West Bank Pharmacy in Widnes, we are dedicated to helping you manage and treat UTIs effectively through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme. Don’t let a UTI hold you back—visit us today for expert care and support.

For more information or to book a consultation, please contact our friendly team. We are here to help you feel your best.