Urinary infections are not only just a nuisance but can cause serious health problems.
This is caused when bacteria in the Urethra, bladder or kidney multiplies in the urine. If left untreated it can lead to a kidney infection or sepsis, a life threatening infection of the bloodstream.
Older people are more likely to experience these infections partly due to a weakened immune system.
Another cause can be urine retention ( incomplete emptying of the bladder) and incontinence caused by weakness in the muscles of the bladder and pelvic floor.
Typical signs and symptoms
-Smelly urine
. Cloudy or dark coloured urine
. Need to urinate frequently
.Pain or burning sensation on urination
. Low grade fever
In Elderly patients symptoms can also include
. Confusion
. Agitation
. Loss of Coordination
. Dizziness
. Falling
. Other behavioral changes
Sometimes these can be the only signs so it is crucial to keep an eye out for any change in behaviour.
Medical Conditions that increase the Risks of Urinary Infections are:
. Diabetes
. Catheter
. Incontinence
. Enlarged Prostate
. Immobility especially those in bed most of the time
. Surgery around the bladder
. Kidney stones
How to reduce the Risks
. Drink plenty of fluids unless advised differently from your GP
. Volvic bottled water is recommended by some of my patients as it has a PH of 7.5 and is filtered
. Avoid Caffeine and alcohol which irritates the bladder
. Some people suggest that drinking Cranberry juice which alters the acidity of your urine can help.
. Keep personal hygiene a priority
. Change briefs promptly and often
. Always wipe front to back (for women)
.Try to use toilet rather than relying on incontinence briefs
If you think you have an infection call your GP or 111
If caught early a simple course of antibiotics usually cures the problem swiftly