Traveling to London? Our Private GP Clinic Can Help with Urgent Medical Needs
If you travel to London, you may wonder how to access medical care while here. It can be confusing as
April 15, 2025
Bacterial infections occur when harmful bacteria invade the body and start multiplying, leading to illness.
Unlike viral infections, which are caused by viruses, bacterial infections can often be treated with antibiotics.
They can affect various parts of the body and range from mild to severe.
Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can be found in various environments, including soil, water, and living organisms. They are incredibly diverse and can be classified into different shapes, such as rods (bacilli), spheres (cocci), and spirals (spirilla). Bacteria can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful to humans.
Beneficial bacteria play crucial roles in processes like digestion, where they help break down food in the intestines and produce essential vitamins. They are also used in biotechnology for producing antibiotics and other products.
Neutral bacteria exist in various environments without causing harm or providing significant benefits. They are simply part of the natural microbial flora.
Harmful bacteria, or pathogenic bacteria, can cause infections and diseases. These bacteria can invade the body, multiply, and produce toxins that damage tissues.
Bacterial infections can often be treated with antibiotics, which target specific bacterial structures or functions.
In contrast, viral infections are not treated with antibiotics. Instead, antiviral medications may be used to manage symptoms or reduce the severity of the infection.
Vaccines can prevent many viral infections, such as the flu.
Bacterial infections can be classified into several types. Respiratory infections include conditions such as pneumonia, TB, and bronchitis.
Skin infections, on the other hand, encompass issues like cellulitis and impetigo. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are another common type.
Gastrointestinal infections include food poisoning and gastritis. Additionally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea fall into this category.
Symptoms vary depending on the infection but may include:
Some bacterial infections, such as chlamydia and non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU), may not present with symptoms. Additionally, some conditions exhibit different symptoms in men and women.
To reduce your risk of bacterial infections, practice good hygiene by regularly washing your hands and handling food properly.
Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is also important, as some bacterial infections can be prevented through vaccines.
Additionally, avoid close contact with individuals who are showing symptoms of bacterial infections to minimise your exposure.
Pinpointing the source of your bacterial infection-related discomfort is crucial for effective treatment and alleviation. Schedule an appointment with one of our doctors to determine the most suitable course of action.
We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.
Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.
On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.
You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.
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Please note that Walk-in Clinic is a private medical centre & not an NHS service. Harley Walk-in Clinic Ltd company registration no. 07472804
