Whether you should go to the Emergency Room for a urinary tract infection (UTI) depends on a few factors. If your symptoms are severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting and/or confusion, you should seek immediate medical attention.
These may be signs of a more serious condition, such as a kidney infection, so it’s important to seek help to rule out any underlying illness and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Also, if you are pregnant or have weakened immunity, such as those with HIV, you should also seek help immediately. Your UTI could be more severe or become more severe if left untreated.
If your UTI symptoms are mild, such as slight burning when you urinate, an increased frequency or urgency of urination and/or cloudy, foul-smelling urine, you can call your doctor to see if it can be treated with antibiotics.
You may also be able to seek treatment through an urgent care clinic or walk-in clinic.
At the end of the day, if you are in any doubt about your symptoms or experience any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor or other medical provider for professional advice.
