If you’ve experienced cystitis or a urinary tract infection (UTI), you’ll know how uncomfortable it can be. You may feel burning when you pass urine. You may also need the toilet more often. Sometimes, you just feel that something isn’t right.
The good news is that many cases improve quickly. In addition, there are reliable ways to reduce the risk of future infections.
This guide explains what you can do at home, when a pharmacy can help, and when medical attention is urgent.
What Is Cystitis?
Cystitis means inflammation of the bladder. It is usually caused by bacteria. It is more common in women. However, men can be affected too.
Typical symptoms include:
• Burning or stinging when passing urine
• Needing to urinate more often
• Urgency (feeling you must go now) but passing only small amounts
• Lower tummy discomfort or pressure
• Cloudy urine
• Strong-smelling urine
Mild cystitis in otherwise healthy adults can sometimes settle without antibiotics. However, symptoms that persist or keep coming back should be assessed.
Self-Care for Mild Symptoms
If symptoms are mild and have lasted less than 24–48 hours, these steps may help:
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol and acidic drinks
• Consider suitable pain relief, such as paracetamol, if appropriate for you
• Use gentle heat on the lower tummy (for example, a warm compress)
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
If symptoms improve within a day or two, you may not need further treatment. However, if they don’t improve, seek advice.
Pharmacy First: Fast Access to Treatment
In England, the NHS Pharmacy First service may allow some pharmacies to assess and treat uncomplicated UTIs in women aged 16–64. This can be done without a GP appointment.
A pharmacist can:
• Review your symptoms confidentially
• Check for red-flag signs
• Provide treatment when clinically appropriate and within NHS guidance
• Advise on self-care and prevention
This service offers fast, convenient care. In addition, it can reduce delays in starting treatment.
Note: Men, pregnant women, and those with recurrent or complicated infections usually still need GP assessment.
When to See a Pharmacist or Use an Online Assessment
Seek pharmacy advice if:
• Symptoms last longer than 1–2 days
• You have repeated episodes
• You are unsure if symptoms are cystitis, thrush, or something else
• You take other medicines and want to avoid interactions
A pharmacist can help you decide the next step. For example, this may be self-care, Pharmacy First treatment, or a GP review.
Red-Flag Symptoms — Seek Urgent Medical Help
Contact your GP, NHS 111, or emergency care urgently if you develop:
• Fever or chills
• Flank or back pain
• Feeling very unwell or shivery
• Blood in your urine
• Symptoms during pregnancy
• Sudden confusion (especially in older adults)
• Pain, fever, or urinary symptoms in men
These symptoms may suggest a kidney infection. They may also suggest a spreading infection. Therefore, urgent treatment may be needed.
Preventing Cystitis and UTIs
You can lower your risk with simple daily habits:
• Drink enough fluids (aim for pale straw-coloured urine)
• Don’t hold urine for long periods
• Wipe front to back after using the toilet
• Empty your bladder after sex
• Avoid perfumed washes or sprays around the genital area
• Choose breathable cotton underwear
• Change out of wet clothing promptly
If UTIs are frequent, speak to your GP. They may recommend tests or prevention strategies. For example, they may check for triggers or underlying causes.
How Pharmacies Support UTI Care
Pharmacists can help in several ways. They can:
• Assess symptoms and consider likely causes
• Advise on hydration and pain relief
• Explain whether Pharmacy First may be suitable
• Signpost to GP or urgent care when needed
• Check that over-the-counter products are safe with your medicines
Many people find pharmacy support quicker and easier than getting a GP appointment. Also, it can provide reassurance when symptoms are worrying.
How Newgen Can Help
Newgen Pharmacy supports patients with UTI symptoms by reviewing your history, medicines and risk factors. We can advise on self-care, suitable over-the-counter options, and when urgent assessment is needed.
Where guidelines allow, and for eligible cases, we can provide treatment after a structured clinical review. We always prioritise safety.
Compliance note: We never advertise prescription-only medicines publicly. Any treatment discussion occurs privately after assessment.
Author & Content Writer: Dr Naeem Aslam
