How to prepare for a video visit about Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Audience: adult

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common condition that affects the urinary system, often causing symptoms like burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and lower abdominal pain. Preparing for a video visit about a UTI can help you get the most from your time with your healthcare provider. During the visit, you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you have. Telemedicine can often help with initial evaluation and treatment advice for uncomplicated UTIs. However, some cases may require in-person care or tests. This guide offers clear steps to prepare for your video visit, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with chills — seek urgent care.
• Severe pain in your back or side below the ribs — contact emergency services.
• Confusion, dizziness, or vomiting — get immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking for uncomplicated UTI symptoms.
• Providing advice on symptom management and hydration.
• Prescribing antibiotics when appropriate based on history and symptoms.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care or emergency services.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination or urine tests to confirm diagnosis.
• Treating complicated UTIs or infections in pregnant individuals.
• Managing severe symptoms requiring immediate intervention.
• Diagnosing other causes of urinary symptoms that need in-person evaluation.

What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A UTI is an infection that can affect any part of your urinary system, including your bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. Most UTIs involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. Symptoms often include a burning feeling when you pee, needing to go often or urgently, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and lower belly pain. UTIs are common and usually treatable with antibiotics.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, write down your symptoms and when they started. Note any pain, fever, or other changes. Have a list of any medicines or supplements you take. Find a quiet, private place with good internet or phone connection. Make sure your device's camera and microphone work. Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during your visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any allergies. They may ask you to describe your urine or show the area if possible. They will decide if you need tests or prescriptions. Sometimes, they may recommend an in-person visit for urine tests or further examination.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

If you experience high fever, chills, severe back or side pain, vomiting, confusion, or blood in your urine, seek urgent medical attention. These signs may indicate a more serious infection that needs prompt treatment.

Tips for Managing Symptoms at Home

Drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods until you feel better. Use a heating pad on your lower belly to ease discomfort. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully if prescribed antibiotics.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your symptoms and when they began.
• Gather information on current medications and allergies.
• Find a quiet, private space with good internet or phone connection.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the visit.
• Have a pen and paper ready for notes.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and take medications as prescribed.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help clear the infection.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms do not improve within a few days.
• Avoid irritants like caffeine and alcohol until fully recovered.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you develop new symptoms or have concerns.

FAQs

Can I get a UTI diagnosis through a video visit?

Often, healthcare providers can assess your symptoms through a video visit and provide a probable diagnosis of UTI. However, sometimes tests like urine analysis may be needed, which require in-person visits.

What should I do if my symptoms worsen after the video visit?

If you develop high fever, severe pain, vomiting, confusion, or blood in your urine, seek urgent medical care immediately. For less severe worsening, contact your healthcare provider for further advice.

Are antibiotics always needed for a UTI?

Many UTIs are treated with antibiotics, but the decision depends on your symptoms and medical history. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the best treatment during your visit.

Can men have UTIs?

Yes, UTIs can occur in men but are less common. Symptoms and treatment are similar, but men may require more evaluation to rule out other causes.

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 to fully clear the infection.

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. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

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