The NHS has issued a warning to anyone who has urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms and also takes warfarin. Urging people to keep an eye out for key symptoms of a UTI, the service says that if you're on these tablets, you may need to avoid certain UTI remedies.
It firstly notes that a UTI can affect your urinary tract, which includes your bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis) and kidneys (kidney infection). While UTIs may be treated with antibiotics, they're not always needed.
But if you keep getting these signs and symptoms, then it is better to seek help sooner rather than later.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) may include:
Children with UTIs may also:
Symptoms in older, frail people or people with a urinary catheter:
As mentioned, the NHS notes that if you keep getting bladder infections (cystitis) and are taking warfarin, you should avoid cranberry products. Warfarin is a type of medicine known as an anticoagulant that helps your blood flow more easily through your veins, making it less likely that you will form a dangerous blood clot.
The reason the NHS mentions cranberries is that these products, available as juice, tablets or capsules to take every day, could also help. You should speak to your doctor before taking any of these during pregnancy.
It further notes that there is some evidence to suggest that taking D-mannose may be beneficial. This is a sugar you can buy as a powder or tablets to take every day. But be mindful as D-mannose and cranberry products can contain a lot of sugar.
If you think you have a UTI and you are a woman or girl aged between 16 and 64 and are not pregnant or breastfeeding, a pharmacist can give the same medicines as a GP to treat a UTI. They can also give advice or direct you to other medical help.
You think you, your child or someone you care for may have a urinary tract infection (UTI) and:
The NHS also warns that some of these are also signs and symptoms of a kidney infection. If not treated, this can become serious fast and could cause sepsis.
You should take this action if you or your child are confused, drowsy, or have difficulty speaking. It warns: "Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Bring any medicines you take with you."
The NHS explains: "Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are usually caused by bacteria from poo entering the urinary tract. The bacteria enter through the tube that carries pee out of the body (urethra). Women have a shorter urethra than men. This means bacteria are more likely to reach the bladder or kidneys and cause an infection."