Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary Tract Infections

Any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, can become infected with a urinary tract infection. Most infections affect the bladder and urethra, which are parts of the lower urinary tract.

Risk factors:

• Living with diabetes
• Long periods of time spent in a urinary catheter
• Continental leakage
• Prostatic hyperplasia
• Immobility following a stroke

Symptoms:

• Urge to urinate frequently and strongly
• During urinating, the bladder hurts and burns.
• Small amounts of urine may be passed, and the urine may appear cloudy, dark, or bloody, or it may simply smell bad.

Management:

• Antibiotics
• Advice to drink plenty of water

Prevention:

• Encourage seniors to daily clean their private areas
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they irritate the bladder.