How to prepare for a video visit about Bladder Infection (Cystitis)

Audience: adult

A bladder infection, also known as cystitis, is a common condition caused by bacteria entering the bladder. It often leads to symptoms like burning when urinating, frequent urges to urinate, and lower belly pain. Preparing for a video visit about a bladder infection can help you get the most from your time with the healthcare provider. During the visit, you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you have. Telemedicine can often help evaluate mild to moderate bladder infections, guide testing, and recommend treatment. However, some situations require in-person care. This guide explains how to prepare for your video visit, what telemedicine can and cannot do, warning signs to watch for, and what to expect after your visit. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) or chills — seek urgent medical care.
• Severe pain in the back or sides (flank pain) — get in-person evaluation promptly.
• Blood in urine or inability to urinate — seek emergency care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Evaluation of typical symptoms of bladder infection
• Discussion of medical history and symptoms
• Guidance on symptom management and prevention
• Recommendations for urine testing if available locally
• Prescribing antibiotics when appropriate

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe symptoms needing physical examination
• High fever with chills or systemic infection signs
• Blood in urine requiring urgent testing
• Severe pain suggesting kidney involvement
• Emergency situations requiring immediate in-person care

What is a Bladder Infection (Cystitis)?

A bladder infection is an inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by bacteria. It can cause symptoms such as:

Bladder infections are common and often treatable with antibiotics or other medical care.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to speak with a healthcare provider using video or phone. For bladder infections, telemedicine can:

Telemedicine is convenient and can often handle mild to moderate infections.

When In-Person Care is Needed

Some situations require a face-to-face visit or emergency care, such as:

If you have these signs, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To get ready for your telemedicine visit:

After Your Video Visit

After your visit, you may need to:

Keep all instructions and contact information handy.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private place with good internet or phone connection.
• Write down your symptoms with start dates and severity.
• List any current medications and allergies.
• Prepare your medical history related to urinary tract or kidney problems.
• Have your ID and insurance information ready if needed.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow prescribed treatments exactly as directed.
• Complete any recommended lab tests or imaging.
• Monitor symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.
• Schedule follow-up visits if advised by your provider.

FAQs

Can a bladder infection be treated through a video visit?

Yes, many bladder infections can be evaluated and treated through telemedicine, especially if symptoms are mild to moderate. Your provider may recommend antibiotics and symptom management during the video visit.

What should I do if I have a fever with my bladder infection symptoms?

A fever, especially with chills, may indicate a more serious infection like a kidney infection. You should seek in-person medical care promptly as this may require urgent treatment.

Do I need a urine test for a bladder infection?

A urine test can help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment. Your provider may recommend a local lab test or home testing if available, depending on your symptoms and history.

How long does it take to feel better after starting treatment?

Symptoms often improve within a few days of starting antibiotics, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.

Can I prevent bladder infections?

Some prevention tips include drinking plenty of fluids, urinating after sexual activity, wiping from front to back, and avoiding irritants like harsh soaps. Your provider can offer personalized advice.

Sources

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Bladder Infection (Cystitis) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Urinary Tract Infection — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or urgent concerns, seek immediate medical attention.