When you think of a urinary tract infection (UTI), you likely think of burning pain while urinating. Most people do. In the elderly, a UTI may not be as easily detected. It can cause other symptoms that don’t make people think of a UTI. When this happens, it’s known as a silent UTI.
Common Symptoms of a UTI
A UTI is an infection that hits part of the urinary system. The infection can hit the bladder, the urethra or ureters, or the kidneys. It might hit more than one area.
Three symptoms are usually present. You feel pain when urinating. Even after going to the bathroom, your bladder still feels full. You might also feel pain in the area of the bladder.
Uncommon Symptoms of a UTI
In some people, those key symptoms are not present. Instead, a person feels very tired. They might become forgetful and have issues with memory. A fever and chills, shakiness, and nausea are also possible.
If your mom or dad has a silent UTI, it may get misdiagnosed. So many other conditions have these symptoms that it can be hard to pinpoint something unless a test is done to look for a UTI.
Prevention of a Silent UTI
Proper hydration and regular trips to the bathroom can help lower the risk of a UTI. If your parent likes smoothies in the morning, make one with frozen berries and unsweetened cranberry juice. According to John Hopkins Medicine, high doses of vitamin C can help acidify the urine in the bladder and lower the risk of a UTI.
Make sure your mom or dad is using the toilet when necessary and not holding it for an excessive period of time. If you’re out, plan bathroom breaks every couple of hours or so.
Some seniors don’t drink enough. Your parent should aim for about two liters of water each day. They will get some of that from coffee, tea, and foods they eat. If you’re concerned that your mom or dad isn’t drinking enough water, there are ways to help.
Buy a water bottle that has marks on the side to show how much water should be consumed each hour. Some bottles have visual or audible alarms, too. You can also hire a home care provider who specializes in senior care to help your parent with activities like drinking and eating at regular intervals. Our home care agency can help you get started.
Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/kidney_and_urinary_system_disorders/urinary_tract_infections_utis_85,P01497
If you or an aging loved one are in need of Home Care Services in Huntington NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
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