Red flags & when to go in person for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Audience: adult

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common infections that affect the urinary system. Many people with mild UTI symptoms can receive advice and treatment through telemedicine. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person promptly. These include severe pain, fever, blood in urine, or symptoms that worsen or do not improve. Telemedicine can help assess symptoms, provide guidance on home care, and recommend when to seek in-person care. This information helps you understand when telemedicine is appropriate and when urgent medical attention is needed. Remember, this is educational and not a diagnosis. If you have concerns or serious symptoms, please seek in-person medical care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) or chills — seek urgent in-person care.
• Severe flank or back pain — possible kidney infection; see a healthcare provider immediately.
• Blood in urine or persistent vomiting — requires prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild UTI symptoms such as burning urination, frequent urination, mild pelvic discomfort.
• Review of symptoms and medical history to guide treatment.
• Advice on symptom management and hydration.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe symptoms including high fever, chills, flank pain, vomiting.
• Signs of systemic infection or complications.
• Need for physical examination, urine tests, or imaging studies.

What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system — kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra. Most UTIs involve the bladder and urethra. Symptoms often include burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic pain. UTIs are common and usually treatable with antibiotics.

Common Symptoms of UTI

Typical symptoms include:

If symptoms are mild, telemedicine can often help with evaluation and advice.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Certain signs require prompt in-person medical evaluation:

If you experience any of these, go to a healthcare facility immediately.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine providers can:

Telemedicine is convenient for mild symptoms but has limits for severe or complicated infections.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your appointment:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms and when they began.
• List all current medications and allergies.
• Ensure a private, quiet space for your tele-visit.
• Have a device with a camera and microphone ready.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Take prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush the urinary tract.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve.
• Seek in-person care immediately if red flags appear.

FAQs

Can I treat a UTI without seeing a doctor in person?

Mild UTI symptoms can often be evaluated and treated through telemedicine. However, if symptoms are severe or worsen, you should see a healthcare provider in person.

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

A fever may indicate a more serious infection like a kidney infection. You should seek in-person medical care promptly.

How long does it take for UTI symptoms to improve with treatment?

Symptoms often improve within a few days of starting antibiotics, but if they do not improve after 48 hours, contact your healthcare provider.

Can drinking water help a UTI?

Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush bacteria from your urinary tract and may relieve symptoms, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment if you have an infection.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter pain relievers for UTI symptoms?

Over-the-counter pain relievers may help ease discomfort, but they do not treat the infection. Always follow dosing instructions and consult your provider if unsure.

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 information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine can provide guidance but cannot replace in-person evaluation when needed. If you experience severe symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.