Introduction to Suresign UTI Test Strips Understanding Urinary Tract Infections Detecting Leukocytes and Nitrates: How it Works Symptoms and Diagnosis of UTIs Treatment & Specialist Referrals Utilising Suresign Test Strips Related Products: Suresign Pregnancy Test Strips Introduction to Suresign UTI Test Strips The Suresign UTI Test Strips offer a dependable method for the qualitative detection of urinary tract infections (UTIs) through the analysis of Leukocytes and Nitrates in urine. Comprising firm plastic and affixed with two separate reagent areas, these test strips are intended for single-use self-testing. Understanding Urinary Tract Infections A UTI is a prevalent infection of the urinary system that includes the urethra, bladder, ureter, and kidneys. While anyone can develop a UTI, women are at a higher risk due to the shorter urethra that allows easy penetration of germs. Elderly males are also affected, particularly those with an enlarged prostate obstructing urine flow. In healthy individuals, urine is sterile, meaning it contains no microorganisms. Emptiness of the bladder at regular intervals helps maintain this sterility. However, an infection may start in the urethra and spread to the kidneys. Symptoms vary and include burning sensation during urination, strong urge to urinate, or cloudy, foul-smelling urine. Detecting Leukocytes and Nitrates: How it Works The Suresign UTI Test Strips function by revealing: Leukocytes: The presence of granulocyte esterase’s which react with a diazonium salt to produce a colour that varies from beige-pink to purple. Nitrite: The conversion of nitrate by gram-negative bacteria in the urine, which reacts with p-arsanilic acid to produce a pink colour. Read a detailed scientific article on urinary tract infections and their detection. Symptoms and Diagnosis of UTIs Rather than using Suresign UTI Test Strips, UTIs can also be diagnosed by observing symptoms such as: Pain or burning sensation during urination Frequent need to urinate at night Blood in urine Lower abdominal or back pain High temperature or feeling hot and shivery Children’s symptoms may differ and include: High temperature General unwell appearance Bedwetting or accidents Vomiting Consult a GP if any of these symptoms present, or if a positive test occurs using Suresign UTI Test Strips. Along with at home testing strips, there are also other methods of detecting a urinary tract infection: Cystoscopy: A thin tube with a lens inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder. Imaging: Ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs can be used if someone is experiencing frequent UTIs. Treatment & Specialist Referrals In the event of suspected UTI, a GP may request a urine test similar to Suresign UTI Test Strips x3, provide self-care advice, or prescribe antibiotics for severe or persistent infections. Antibiotic Treatment: If antibiotics are prescribed, it is crucial to complete the full course, even if symptoms improve. Chronic UTIs: In the case of chronic UTIs or persistent positive results with Suresign UTI Test Strips, further referrals, tests, and treatments may be required. Utilising Suresign Test Strips How to use Suresign Test Strips To use Suresign Test Strips, please follow the instructions in the leaflet of your purchase. For a visual guide, you may refer to this YouTube video. Collect urine in a clean cup. Dip the test strip in the urine sample. Wipe off excess urine and lay the strip flat. Wait for 2 minutes (Do not read after 3 minutes). Compare the test pad colour with the provided chart. The chart provided allows sperate readings for leukocytes and nitrites, with results categorized as negative or positive. Related Products: Suresign Pregnancy Test Strips In addition to UTI Test Strips, Suresign also offer Pregnancy Test Strips. With over 99% accuracy, these one-step tests provide results in just 3 minutes. Easy-to-read results Higher sensitivity Simple one-step process