Everything you need to know about cystitis (including how to treat it WITHOUT seeing your GP)
Ad Feature by Boots
Women everywhere know the pain and discomfort that comes with cystitis.
From a burning sensation to more frequent trips to the toilet, the symptoms can range from irritating to very painful.
While some symptoms can be alleviated by drinking more fluids or taking over-the-counter medicines, a case of cystitis can sometimes require a trip to the GP.
But now Boots has launched a new Cystitis Test & Treat Service* that allows you to receive the care you need without having to book a doctor's appointment.
Here, we reveal some facts you might need to know about cystitis and how the new Boots service might just save you your next trip to the GP...
From a burning sensation to more frequent trips to the toilet, cystitis symptoms in women can range from irritating to very painful. Now Boots has launched a new Cystitis Test & Treat Service that allows you to receive the care you need without the hassle of an appointment. Visit boots.com/cystitis-test-and-treat-service for more information and a list of participating stores
WHAT IS CYSTITIS?
Cystitis a type of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) that is caused by bacteria that can get into the bladder and cause inflammation.
Cystitis is usually caused by external bacteria passing through the urethra into the bladder and multiplying.
In women, mild cases of cystitis can resolve themselves in a few days without the need for medication, but sometimes antibiotics may be needed to clear the infection.
Men and children with symptoms of cystitis should always see their doctor.
HOW DOES THE BOOTS CYSTITIS TEST & TREAT SERVICE WORK?
Boots is launching a Cystitis Test & Treat Service for women that allows you to receive the care you need without having to book a GP appointment.
The Cystitis Test & Treat Service, launching in selected Boots stores in London and Sheffield, comprises of two steps: an at-home test and an in-store consultation with a specially-trained Boots pharmacist.*
After a short conversation with a specially trained pharmacy advisor, in one of the participating Boots stores across London and Sheffield, you can buy the £9.99 self-testing kit.
It involves a straightforward urine dipstick test which can be carried out at a convenient time and place, sparing you the awkwardness of arranging an appointment.
The results from the test are then displayed on a free and easy-to-use mobile phone app (compatible smartphone required)
Once this is done, bring the results back into a participating Boots store where a pharmacist will be able to explain what they mean and offer advice on a range of suitable treatment options, which may include prescription medicine, to help get you back to normal. This part of the service costs £14.99 if prescription medicine is supplied.**
So if you're one of the millions of women in the UK who experiences a bout of cystitis and you are aged between 16 and 64 then why not pop into a participating Boots and see if the Cystitis Test & Treat Service is right for you - and save yourself a trip to the doctor's.
IS IT RIGHT FOR ME?
The service is designed for women, aged 16 to 64, who have common symptoms of cystitis (see above). This is the age group most affected by the condition.
However if you have severe symptoms, have signs of a kidney infection (such as lower back pain) or if you feel unwell (for example, if you have a high temperature or flu-like symptoms), you should speak to your GP.
Also see your GP if your only symptom is visible blood in your urine, or if you have had two or more bouts of cystitis within the last six months, or three or more within the last 12 months.
The service is also not suitable if you are pregnant or have diabetes.
*For women aged 16-64. Private service in selected Boots stores in Sheffield & London, subject to availability. Compatible smartphone required (download free app). Eligibility criteria & charges apply. Men and children with symptoms of cystitis should always see a doctor.
**There is no charge for the pharmacist consultation if prescription medicine is not supplied.
