Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are extremely common in seniors for a variety of reasons. Menopause, reduced mobility, a weakened immune system, and even chronic medical conditions can all be potential causes. UTIs occur when bacteria stay in the urinary tract too long and multiply, becoming an infection. Recognizing UTI symptoms quickly helps seniors get the help they need and avoid a more complicated infection. Home care providers can be a huge help with this goal.
Frequent Urination
Seniors with a UTI may find that they are urinating more frequently, even if they aren’t drinking more water than usual. That urge to urinate may come with a sense of urgency, causing seniors to feel as if they have to go right then, even if they recently visited the bathroom. When they do urinate, they may only pass small amounts of urine at a time, despite the feeling of urgency.
Painful Urination
People of all ages often feel a burning or painful sensation when they have a urinary tract infection. This is such a classic UTI symptom that seniors may not think they have a UTI if they’re not experiencing pain or burning when they visit the bathroom. In reality, many seniors find that painful urination is less common for them to experience, so it’s important to be aware of the other symptoms.
Cloudy, Strong-smelling, or Bloody Urine
Changes in color, consistency, or the smell of urine can often indicate a UTI. If seniors are drinking a lot of water, they may not notice changes in their urine as easily. Any changes are worth talking to a doctor about, however, just to rule out the possibility of a UTI.
Discomfort in the Lower Abdomen
Sometimes seniors find that they experience pain or pressure in the lower abdominal area. This is where the bladder is located, so swelling and inflammation in the bladder can cause discomfort. Any pain in the abdominal area shouldn’t be ignored, so again it’s worth talking to a doctor about what is going on.
Fever
A UTI is an infection, which can often cause seniors to experience a fever. Even if seniors don’t think they’re sick or are not experiencing any other symptoms, a fever is a sign of trouble. Fever and chills should always be checked out.
Behavioral Changes or Confusion
One symptom that seniors are extremely prone to experiencing with a UTI is confusion. This can also manifest as behavioral changes that seem out of character. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for the beginning stages of dementia.
Incontinence
An increase in accidents or incontinence may be a sign of a UTI. This happens because the bladder is inflamed and under stress. Seniors may not realize that incontinence is a result of a bladder infection, especially if they’re not experiencing other symptoms.
Recognizing these symptoms quickly helps seniors to get treatment sooner. Home care providers can help with hydration assistance and transportation to doctor’s appointments, making treatment easier. Afterward, seniors can benefit from having home care providers there to continue setting routines that help them to stay healthy and avoid future UTIs.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Wichita Falls, TX, please contact the caring staff at Clear Path Home Care today. Call 254-559-2030.
Clear Path Home Care provides compassionate, high quality home care in McCulloch County, San Saba County, Mills County, Hamilton County, Runnels County, Coleman County, Brown County, Comanche County, Eastland County, Callahan County, Palo Pinto County, Stephens County, Shackleford County, Jack County, Young County, Throckmorton County, Baylor County, Archer County, Clay County, Wilbarger County, and Wichita County in Texas.
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