Preventing Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common, especially for women. The Cleveland Clinic states that 1 in 5 women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime. Women are more susceptible due to their anatomy since they have shorter urethras, which makes it easier for bacteria to get into the bladder or kidneys. Seniors, in general, are also very susceptible to UTIs and, more specifically to cystitis. Cystitis is an infection in the bladder caused by a UTI. Seniors are susceptible to this as well due to incontinence or catheter use. One may not be able to completely empty their bladder, so bacteria may harvest there. 

It is very important to monitor UTIs in seniors because, if left untreated for a long period of time, it can result in confusion, agitation, and even hallucinations. These symptoms may indicate dementia, but in a lot of cases it is simply due to a UTI. 

Here are some tips to prevent UTIs:

• Stay hydrated
• Consistently drink cranberry juice or take cranberry pills
• Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anus being spread to the urinary system
• Wear breathable cotton underwear (if not incontinent)
• Frequently change briefs 
• Keep genital areas dry

The following are conditions that may make one more susceptible to UTIs:

• Diabetes
• Incontinence
• Use of a catheter
• Enlarged prostate
• Immobility
• Surgery around the bladder
• Kidney stones
• Dementia
• ALS, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy

Symptoms to be aware of:

• Pain or burning while urinating
• Frequent urination
• Having a feeling of needing to urinate but the bladder is empty
• Blood in urine
• Abdominal pain
• Strong smelling urine

More serious symptoms that may be a sign of a kidney infection:

• Fever
• Chills
• Lower back pain
• Nausea/vomiting

Treatment for UTIs typically just include antibiotics. There are a few different types that may be used depending on medical history and type of bacteria that is found in the urine. 

Although UTIs are very common, they are highly uncomfortable and an inconvenience, so taking prevention measures is the best way to approach it. If one has frequent UTIs, looking into seeing a specialist such as a urologist or nephrologist is best for a more thorough evaluation. 

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By: Leila Lagandaon

Placement Coordination Supervisor and Internship Supervisor at WellPath Partners

B.S. in Health Science, Community Health Education at California State University, Long Beach