Urinary tract infections are common and can range from mild cystitis to infections that need urgent care. In many straightforward cases, a short antibiotic course clears symptoms within a couple of days. If you need quick assessment and a prescription, an online doctor can review your symptoms and, if suitable, send a prescription by Healthmail to your chosen Irish pharmacy.
UTI symptoms, red flags and when to act
Common UTI symptoms include:
- Burning or stinging when you pass urine
- Passing urine more often, urgency or only small amounts
- Lower tummy discomfort, pressure or back ache
- Cloudy, strong smelling or blood‑tinged urine
- Mild fever, feeling washed out
Red flags that need urgent assessment:
- High fever with shaking chills
- Pain in the sides or back (kidney area)
- Vomiting that stops you keeping fluids down
- Confusion (especially in older adults) or severe pain
Online UTI prescription
Step 1: choose an online doctor and complete a short medical questionnaire about your symptoms, temperature, any flank pain, pregnancy status, allergies and current medicines. You can use our online doctor partner, Zava, to easily order your prescription.
Step 2: an IMC-registered doctor reviews your answers. If suitable, they send a digital prescription via Healthmail to your chosen pharmacy. If you choose Healthwave, the prescription can be addressed to healthwave.dundrum@healthmail.ie.
Step 3: your pharmacy confirms availability, gives advice on timing, food and hydration, and arranges delivery or collection. If you choose Healthwave, we pack discreetly and typically deliver in 1-2 working days.
Prefer to speak directly with a doctor?
Easily book a video consultation with a registered doctor via Eirdoc.
Prefer to see a doctor in person?
Do you need antibiotics? First-line options and courses
For uncomplicated cystitis in adults, short antibiotic courses are typically used. A common option is nitrofurantoin for several days. Other choices may be considered depending on your symptoms, history and any previous cultures. Your doctor or pharmacist will match the medicine and duration to your situation.
Symptoms often begin to ease within 24 to 48 hours after the first doses. It is important to finish the course unless you are advised to stop.
Self-care, hydration and prevention tips
- Drink regularly and aim for pale yellow urine; avoid dehydrating drinks when symptomatic.
- Consider simple pain relief if suitable for you.
- Do not delay passing urine and empty the bladder fully.
- After symptoms settle, consider prevention: stay hydrated, pass urine after sex, avoid perfumed products around the genital area, and discuss options if UTIs keep returning.
Recurrent UTIs: what to do next
If you have frequent infections, ask about tailored strategies. Depending on your history, options can include behavioural measures, reviewing contraception choices, addressing vaginal dryness after menopause, or a standby prescription with clear guidance on when to start. Your doctor may recommend a urine culture and further checks to rule out other causes.
FAQs
How fast do UTI antibiotics work?
Many people notice improvement within 24 to 48 hours. If symptoms are worsening or you develop fever, back pain or vomiting, seek review.
Can I treat a UTI without antibiotics?
Mild symptoms sometimes settle with fluids and time, but antibiotics are often needed for confirmed infections or persistent symptoms.
Is nitrofurantoin the first choice for UTIs in Ireland?
It is commonly used for uncomplicated cystitis in adults, but your doctor will choose based on your symptoms, history and local guidance.
When should I go to urgent care for UTI symptoms?
High fever, flank pain, vomiting, confusion, pregnancy, symptoms in children, or severe pain need urgent assessment.
