Find Relief With Urinary Tract Infection Treatment in West Hartford, CT

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common. In fact, at PhysicianOne Urgent Care in West Hartford, Connecticut, UTI treatment is one of our most frequently requested services. Why is that? One reason is that a large number of bacteria live in the area around the rectum and, in women, the vagina. Most of these bacteria are beneficial and necessary for healthy intestinal function. However, the bacteria can cause problems if they enter the nearby urethra and invade the bladder, which is not unusual given the proximity of the rectum and the urethra. If you believe you may be suffering from a UTI, don’t hesitate to visit one of our urgent care centers. We are open 365 days per year with extended hours and accept most major health insurance plans. We also offer affordable self-pay rates for those who are not insured. 

UTI Causes & Risk Factors

An individual may develop a UTI due to several reasons. A few common causes of UTIs are:

• Sexual activity - During sexual intercourse, bacteria can be introduced to the urethra, increasing the likelihood of infection. 
• Kidney stones - Any type of urinary tract obstruction can result in an infection because when the flow of urine is blocked, it creates a stagnant environment for bacteria to grow and multiply. 
• Weakened immune system - A weakened immune system, whether due to certain medical conditions or immunosuppressive treatments, can compromise the body's ability to fight off infections, including UTIs.
• Poor hygiene - Insufficient cleansing of the genital area or improper wiping after using the toilet (for example, wiping from back to front for women) can increase the risk of UTIs.

Although both men and women can have UTIs, males and females differ anatomically and physiologically. Women tend to be more susceptible to UTIs than men because bacteria can reach a woman’s bladder more easily than a man’s due to her comparatively short urethra. In men, the longer urethra provides a natural barrier, making it more difficult for bacteria to reach the bladder.

That isn’t to say that men don’t have risk factors. Conditions such as an enlarged prostate gland, prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), or prostate surgery can disrupt the normal flow of urine and increase the risk of UTIs in men.

Common UTI Symptoms

A UTI can range from mildly uncomfortable to disruptive to your day-to-day life—and your symptoms may get worse if you do not begin taking antibiotics soon after symptom onset. Initially, you may notice a slight increase in urinary frequency or mild pelvic discomfort before any other symptoms arise. But as the bacteria in your urethra and bladder multiply, these organs can become irritated and inflamed. As a result, you may feel:

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• Painful burning
• Lower back pain
• Fatigue

You may also find that your urine has a strong odor or cloudy appearance, and you could develop a fever. If you notice blood in your urine or begin to experience chills, it’s crucial that you call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room as soon as possible. These signs indicate that your infection may have spread to the kidneys (pyelonephritis).

How a UTI Is Diagnosed

At PhysicianOne Urgent Care, we can quickly diagnose a UTI by analyzing a urine sample in our on-site lab. We will examine your urine under a microscope to check for bacteria or white blood cells, which can be a sign of infection. After diagnosing a UTI, we can provide appropriate treatment to help clear it up quickly.

How Is a UTI Treated?

Treatment for a simple UTI usually involves a short course of antibiotics. If we prescribe antibiotic medication for you, you may find that your pain and urinary urgency go away right after you take your first few doses. Even so, you should still complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed. If not fully treated, your UTI may return and become resistant to antibiotics. Additionally, you should drink plenty of fluids while you are being treated for a UTI. This will cause you to urinate more frequently and help flush the bacteria out of your urinary tract.

In some cases, a mild UTI may resolve on its own without medical treatment. However, it is generally recommended to seek medical attention and receive appropriate treatment for a UTI, as the infection can persist or worsen if left untreated.

Natural Remedies

While natural remedies may help alleviate UTI symptoms or support overall urinary tract health, it's important to note that they should not replace medical treatment. Typically, the only way to ensure a UTI has been eradicated is by taking a full course of antibiotics to thoroughly clear the infection.

Why Choose PhysicianOne Urgent Care for UTI Treatment?

At PhysicianOne Urgent Care, we provide UTI treatment on a walk-in basis—no appointment necessary. Just stop by our urgent care center in West Hartford whenever it’s most convenient for you. We offer short wait times, do not require referrals, and provide quick results so you can begin UTI treatment promptly. You can walk into our urgent care center anytime during our operating hours or reserve your place in line ahead of time through our online booking tool. You may also choose to schedule a 24/7 integrated virtual care visit so you can speak to a qualified local provider at your earliest convenience.