Although most UTIs can be treated at an urgent care, some symptoms can be a sign of a serious health problem, such as kidney infections, that may warrant an ER visit. These symptoms include: High fever. Shaking and chills.
How an urgent care can help
Emergency rooms are for just that—emergencies. Although painful, UTIs are not life-threatening and can usually be treated safely and cost effectively at an urgent care center. Common symptoms of UTIs that can be taken care of at an urgent care include:
- Strong or frequent urges to urinate
- Passing small amounts of urine
- A burning feeling while urinating
- Cloudy, red, pink or brown urine
- Urine with a strong smell
- Pelvic pain (in women)
Most urgent care facilities will prescribe an antibiotic and give you information about how to manage your discomfort at home.
Are there appropriate times to go to the ER for a UTI?
Although most UTIs can be treated at an urgent care, some symptoms can be a sign of a serious health problem, such as kidney infections, that may warrant an ER visit. These symptoms include:
- High fever
- Shaking and chills
- Severe nausea
- Vomiting
Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, people with weakened immune systems and people with certain conditions like diabetes or kidney disease may need specialized treatment. Your doctor or nearest urgent care facility can direct you to the appropriate location.
Don’t let a UTI go untreated
Untreated urinary tract infections can lead to life-threatening health conditions if the infection spreads to other parts of the body, such as the kidneys. A kidney infection can lead to sepsis, a complication in which your body becomes overwhelmed while fighting an infection.
Sepsis caused by a urinary tract infection is called urosepsis. Go to the emergency room if you notice these signs of urosepsis:
- Abnormal heart function
- Difficulty breathing
- Inability to think clearly
- Extreme fatigue