At CityMed Pharmacy, we are committed to providing top-notch health services to the communities of White Rock and Surrey. Our dedication to excellence and patient care has made us a top-rated pharmacy in both regions. Whether you need prescription medications, over-the-counter products, or health advice, our team of experienced pharmacists is here to help.
Comprehensive Health Services
CityMed Pharmacy offers a wide range of health services to meet your needs:
- Free Delivery Pharmacy: We understand that getting to the pharmacy isn’t always easy. That’s why we offer free delivery services to ensure you get your medications on time, every time.
- Vaccination Near Me: Stay protected with our vaccination services. We provide a variety of vaccines, including flu shots and travel vaccines. Check our vaccine availability in Surrey and White Rock.
- Minor Ailments and Contraception: Our pharmacists can now prescribe for minor ailments and contraception. Visit us for assessments and treatments for conditions like acne and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
What is a UTI?
A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, specifically the bladder and urethra. Women are generally at a higher risk of developing UTIs than men, and they are also more common in older adults.
How Do You Get a UTI?
UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. The most common bacterium responsible for UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is found in the digestive system. Other bacteria like streptococci, klebsiella, and Proteus mirabilis, and sometimes even fungi, can also cause UTIs.
What Are the Symptoms of a UTI?
Common symptoms of a UTI include:
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating (dysuria)
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
How Long Does a UTI Last?
If you’ve got a UTI just in your bladder, the infection can last from a few days to one week. But if you have a kidney infection, it will usually last longer and may take several weeks to get better.
How to Treat a UTI
To help ease symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI):
- Take paracetamol to reduce pain and also to bring down your temperature if you have a fever.
- Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids so that you pass urine regularly during the day.
- Some people take cystitis sachets or cranberry drinks and products every day to prevent UTIs from happening, which may help. But there’s no evidence they help ease symptoms or treat a UTI if the infection has already started.
Treatment from a Pharmacist, GP or Nurse
If a GP or other healthcare professional thinks you may have a urinary tract infection (UTI), they may do a urine test, although this is not always needed. A simple urine dipstick test may show white blood cells, nitrite and, sometimes, blood that indicate the urine is infected. The sample may be sent to the laboratory to be further tested to identify the bacteria causing the infection and the best antibiotics to treat the infection.
How to Prevent UTIs
If you have repeated UTIs, you can take steps to lower the chance of getting a further UTI:
- Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water.
- Wipe from front to back when you go to the toilet.
- Keep the genital area clean and dry.
- Try to make sure you fully empty your bladder when passing urine.
- Wash the skin around the vagina with water before and after sex.
- Pass urine as soon as possible after sex.
When to See a Doctor for a UTI
Contact or see a GP or other primary healthcare professional if:
- Your child has symptoms of a UTI.
- You’re a man with symptoms of a UTI.
- You’re pregnant and have symptoms of a UTI.
- Your symptoms get worse or do not improve within two days.
- Your symptoms come back after treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
1. What is a UTI?
A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, specifically the bladder and urethra.
2. What are the common symptoms of a UTI?
Common symptoms of a UTI include:
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating (dysuria)
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
3. How do you get a UTI?
UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. The most common bacterium responsible for UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is found in the digestive system.
4. Who is at higher risk of getting a UTI?
Women are generally at higher risk of developing UTIs than men. Other risk factors include:
- Previous UTIs
- Sexual activity
- Certain types of birth control (e.g., diaphragms)
- Menopause
- Urinary tract abnormalities
- Catheter use
5. How can I prevent UTIs?
To help prevent UTIs, you can:
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
- Urinate after sexual intercourse
- Avoid using irritating feminine products
- Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing
6. How are UTIs treated?
UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. It’s important to take the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help alleviate symptoms.
7. When should I see a doctor for a UTI?
You should see a doctor if you experience:
- Severe symptoms such as high fever, chills, or back pain
- Symptoms that do not improve within a few days
- Recurrent UTIs
- UTI symptoms during pregnancy
8. Can UTIs lead to more serious health problems?
If left untreated, a UTI can spread to the kidneys and cause a more serious infection called pyelonephritis. This can lead to permanent kidney damage or a life-threatening condition called sepsis.
9. Can CityMed Pharmacists prescribe antibiotics for UTIs?
Yes, CityMed Pharmacists can assess and prescribe medications for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Visit CityMed Pharmacy Today!
For all your health needs, visit CityMed Pharmacy in White Rock and Surrey. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to assist you with your health concerns and provide the best care possible. Whether you need a prescription refill, health advice, or vaccination, we are here to help.
Contact Us:
- White Rock Pharmacy: +1 (604) 385-1490
- Surrey Pharmacy: +1 (604) 593-8866
Stay healthy and take care with CityMed Pharmacy!