UTIs in Men: Symptoms, Causes, and How Your Pharmacist Can Help 

Urinary tract infections are often thought of as something that mainly affects women, but men can get them too. If you notice burning when you pee, needing to go more often or unusual changes in your urine, it is worth getting checked rather than hoping it clears on its own. 

UTIs in men can sometimes be linked to an underlying cause, so knowing what to look out for and when to seek advice is important. This blog covers the symptoms and causes of male UTIs, how they differ from UTIs in women, and how your pharmacist can help.

What Are the Symptoms of a UTI in Men? 

The main signs are pain when peeing, needing to go more often, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Other symptoms include: 

• A burning sensation when urinating 

• Lower tummy, back, or groin pain 

• Blood in the urine 

• Feeling unwell or feverish 

Pain around the testicles or difficulty passing urine may signal a different cause, so mention this too. 

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections in Men? 

UTIs happen when bacteria enter the urinary tract, but in men there can be an underlying reason, such as: 

• An enlarged prostate, affecting how fully the bladder empties 

• Kidney stones or a urinary tract blockage 

• Use of a urinary catheter 

• Low fluid intake or poor hygiene 

• Underlying conditions such as diabetes 

This is why a UTI in a man is worth checking rather than self-treating.

Are UTIs in Men Different From UTIs in Women? 

Yes. Women have a shorter urethra, making bladder infections far more common, and pharmacists can already offer rapid Pharmacy First treatment for uncomplicated UTIs in women without a GP appointment. 

That pathway does not currently extend to men, since a first UTI in a man needs a fuller assessment to rule out causes such as prostate problems or an STI with similar symptoms.

When Should a Man See a Pharmacist or GP About a UTI? 

Seeking advice promptly is the key. As per the NHS guidance, men with suspected UTI symptoms should seek an urgent GP appointment or NHS 111 advice, especially with severe symptoms, a high temperature, or diabetes. 

If symptoms are unclear or recurring, our sexual health testing can help rule out infections that mimic a UTI. 

How Can Your Pharmacist Help With a Suspected UTI? 

A pharmacist can assess your symptoms and point you towards the right next step. Through our Pharmacy First service, our team can advise on hydration and pain relief, and arrange an urgent GP referral where needed. 

We also support men with other concerns, including our confidential erectile dysfunction service. 

Concerned About UTI Symptoms? Speak to Ham Pharmacy Group Today 

Do not wait it out. Our pharmacists at Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village serve Richmond, Kingston, Twickenham, Surbiton, Hampton, Teddington, and surrounding areas, and can assess your symptoms and help you find the right next step, from simple advice to a same-day GP referral. Book your consultation today.