Infections (e.g., urinary tract infections, skin infections)

Infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and skin infections are common and usually treatable, especially when caught early. Here’s a breakdown of each, including symptoms, treatment, and when to seek medical help — including how telemedicine can help with both.

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🌡️ 1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system — kidneys, bladder, urethra, or ureters. Most commonly, it affects the bladder and urethra.

Common Symptoms:

• Burning or pain when urinating

• Frequent urge to urinate, even if little comes out

• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

• Lower abdominal pressure or pain

• Blood in the urine (pink, red, or cola-colored)

• Fatigue or shakiness

• Fever or chills (may indicate the infection has reached the kidneys)

📌 In men and older adults, symptoms can be less obvious or mimic other conditions.

Causes:

• Bacteria entering the urinary tract (often E. coli)

• Sexual activity

• Poor hygiene

• Holding urine too long

• Catheter use or urinary tract blockages

Treatment:

• Antibiotics: Usually prescribed after a brief consultation — telemedicine is ideal for this.

• Increased fluid intake: Water helps flush out bacteria.

• Pain relief: OTC meds like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for discomfort.

Most UTIs resolve within 3–7 days with proper treatment.

When to Seek Help:

• Symptoms persist or worsen after 2–3 days

• You have a fever, nausea, or back pain (may signal kidney infection)

• Recurrent UTIs (more than 3 per year)

• Pregnant or have underlying conditions like diabetes

✅ Telemedicine Tip: Many providers can diagnose UTIs based on symptoms and prescribe antibiotics without an in-person visit.

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🦠 2. Skin Infections

Skin infections can range from minor irritations to more serious bacterial infections. They may be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses.

Common Types:

a. Bacterial Skin Infections (e.g., cellulitis, impetigo)

• Symptoms:

  • Redness and swelling

  • Warmth to the touch

  • Pain or tenderness

  • Pus or drainage

• Common causes: Staph or strep bacteria

b. Fungal Skin Infections (e.g., athlete’s foot, ringworm)

• Symptoms:

  • Itching

  • Red, scaly patches

  • Peeling or cracking skin

c. Viral Skin Infections (e.g., herpes, warts)

• Symptoms vary depending on the virus but may include blisters, warts, or sores.

Treatment:

• Bacterial: Antibiotics (topical or oral depending on severity)

• Fungal: Antifungal creams or tablets

• Viral: Antiviral medications or supportive care

Keeping the area clean and dry is key to healing and preventing spread.

When to Seek Help:

• Infection is spreading quickly

• You develop a fever

• There’s pus, extreme pain, or swelling

• Red streaks appear (a sign of spreading infection)

• The infection doesn’t improve in a few days

✅ Telemedicine Tip: NPs or doctors can often diagnose skin infections over video by looking at the affected area and asking about symptoms. Photos may also help.

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🩺 Telemedicine & Infections

Many minor infections — especially UTIs and mild skin infections — can be managed effectively through telemedicine. Providers can:

• Review your symptoms

• Look at photos or conduct a video exam

• Prescribe antibiotics or antifungals

• Recommend at-home care or refer you to in-person care if needed

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