Simple Health Tips to Prevent UTI’s Common in the Elderly Population
Many people suffer from urinary tract infections, often abbreviated UTI. This infection can occur in any of the structures that make up the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. This is one of the most common infections, and UTIs are more prevalent in the elderly population group.
Experts point out that a UTI affects women more than men due to the woman’s placement of anatomical structures. However, men can and do get urinary tract infections too.
There are some helpful health tips to help prevent UTIs from occurring and to recognize the symptoms of a UTI in hopes of starting the appropriate treatments earlier.
Signs & Symptoms That Could Indicate a UTI Explained
There are some key signs and symptoms that individuals should be on the lookout for that could indicate that a urinary tract infection is brewing. Some of the more common symptoms include:
- Burning during urination
- Pelvic pain & discomfort
- Urge to urinate more frequently
- Feeling like you cannot expel urine from bladder fully
- Blood or pus in the urine
- Darker or cloudy urine
- Lower back or abdominal pain
- Increased temperature – fevers
- Chills or shaking
- Fatigue
- Foul odor after urinating
- Increased blood sugar readings in diabetics
- Onset of confusion or mental changes not normally present
Untreated UTIs Are Dangerous for Seniors
Untreated urinary tract infections can be especially dangerous to older individuals that have major health problems. Since some of the earlier symptoms of a UTI are minor or are not readily diagnosed correctly, this infection can spread and become worse rapidly, putting the senior patient at greater risk of becoming septic, which is life-threatening.
Treatments for UTIs & Prevention Measures
Women must use proper hygiene when toileting that includes wiping from front to back. Older women that have weakness, a health issue, or difficulty moving may find it hard to do this.
Treatment measure for a UTI include:
- Increase clear fluid intake
- Antibiotics as directed by a physician
- Attention to hygiene
- Cranberry juice or tablets in water may help prevent infections
Contact your doctor right away if you notice any of these symptoms. There are urine and blood tests that can help diagnose the infection rapidly.
