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Urinary Tract Infections

Dealing with a Urinary Tract Infection

 A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection of the bladder, kidneys, and urethra (the tube that empties urine from the bladder). Once bacteria enter through the urethra, they can spread and lead to infection.

Unfortunately, UTIs can be common in older people and/or people with dementia who don’t drink enough water. They may also be unable to tell you they are having symptoms of a UTI until it’s evident to you that something is wrong.

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Symptoms of a UTI can include:

  • Frequent need to use the loo

  • Pain and burning when peeing

  • Blood in the urine

  • Pain in the lower back or sides of the body

  • Pelvic pain (in women)

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Shivering

  • Wetting themselves (this may be worse than usual if your loved one is already incontinent)

A person with a UTI can also become confused and delirious, and the condition can sometimes be challenging to identify if your loved one has dementia, which can cause mood swings. However, the confusion will likely develop suddenly, and the person may change their behaviour rapidly. They may also suffer from hallucinations or feel very tired.

Seek medical advice immediately if your loved one becomes extremely confused, agitated, aggressive or has sudden mood swings.

Causes of a UTI can include:

  • Bacteria from the gut entering the urinary tract when wiping or having sex

  • Not drinking enough fluids

  • Pregnancy or menopause

  • Forgetting to wash or change clothes regularly

  • Incontinence

Treatment for a UTI

A UTI must be treated swiftly as it can be severe if left untreated, especially in older people.

Antibiotics can treat a UTI, so encourage your loved one to see their GP if you suspect they have one. Drinking six to eight glasses of water daily to flush out the infection can also relieve it. A heat pad applied to the lower abdomen may help reduce pain.

If your loved one is prescribed antibiotics and they quickly start to feel better, they should still complete the entire course.

Preventing a UTI

• Encourage the person to drink six to eight glasses of water or fluids a day. Juices or water-rich foods will help if they aren’t keen on water

• Make sure they only drink alcohol in moderation

• Prompt the person to use the loo

• Help your loved one with their personal hygiene or prompt them to wash or shower if needed

 

Sources:

https://www.griswoldcare.com/blog/mental-symptoms-of-uti-in-elderly-adults/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/urinary-tract-infections-utis-dementia