A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects any part of your urinary system, including your bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys.  Most commonly, UTIs start in the lower urinary tract — usually the bladder — and are caused by bacteria, most often E. Coli, entering the urethra.

UTIs are more common in women due to anatomical differences, but they can affect anyone at any age.

The symptoms of a UTI can range from mildly annoying to intensely painful.  Some of the most common include:

• Burning sensation while urinating
• Strong, persistent urge to urinate
• Urinating small amounts frequently
• Cloudy or foul smelling urine
• Blood in urine (pink, red, or cola-colored)
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Pressure or cramping around the bladder
• Fatigue, especially in more severe cases

In more advanced infections that spread to the kidneys, symptoms may also include:

• Fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Back pain or flank pain

Tip:  If you experience fever or back pain, contact a provider immediately — it may indicate a kidney infection

While UTIs are most commonly caused by E. Coli bacteria, several risk factors increase the likelihood of getting one:

• Being female
• Sexual activity
• Use of spermicides or diaphragms
• Menopause (due to hormonal changes)
• Holding in urine for too long
• Poor hygiene or wiping back-to-front
• History of recurrent UTIs
• Diabetes or immune system disorders

In a clinical setting, a UTI is usually diagnosed via a urinalysis — a quick test that detects white blood cells, bacteria, and sometimes blood in the urine.  In some cases, a urine culture may be used to identify the specific bacteria and determine the best antibiotic treatment.

Online diagnosis:  At Joepill.com, we use a symptom based telehealth assessment.  If your symptoms are consistent with a UTI and no red flags are present, our licensed providers can prescribe treatment without requiring lab work.

At Joepill.com, we offer 2 preventive care options:  Your allergies and history are taken into consideration.  Patients with sulfa allergies are recommended to substitute with an alternative that we offer!

If left untreated, a UTI can spread to the kidneys, leading to a more serious infection called pyelonephritis.  This can cause permanent kidney damage or lead to sepsis in extreme cases.

Even mild UTIs that go untreated can cause discomfort, fatigue, and missed work or school — so it’s always better to be prepared with preventive care on hand.

Most patients feel significant symptom relief within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics.  However, it’s important to:

• Complete the full course of antibiotics
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Avoid bladder irritants (alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods) until symptoms resolve

If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 3 days, follow up with your provider.

If you’re prone to recurrent UTIs, here are some proven ways to reduce your risk:

• Wipe front to back
• Urinate after sexual activity
• Avoid prolonged holding of urine
• Stay well-hydrated
• Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight pants
• Avoid douching or using scented hygiene products

For some patients, providers may recommend low-dose daily antibiotics or post-coital prophylaxis (taking one antibiotic dose after sex).

Yes.  At joepill.com, you can get evaluated by a licensed provider and prescribed antibiotics for a UTI — all from your phone or computer.   Here’s how it works:

1.  Fill out a form (takes under 2 minutes)

2.  Licensed provider reviews your case

3.  If appropriate, prescription sent to Joe Pill pharmacy

4.  We ship your medication directly to you

No waiting room, no hassle.

• Licensed providers in your state
• Discreet medication delivery available
• Fast reviews — often in under 2 hours
• Preventive options for chronic UTIs
• No downloads, no Zoom calls — just results

If you’re dealing with the pain, urgency, or discomfort of a UTI — don’t wait it out.  Joepill.com makes it fast, easy, and discreet to get the help you need.  Whether it’s your first UTI or your fifth this year, you can be prepared to skip the sick and get back to normal.