A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system — this could be your kidneys, ureters, bladder and/or urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra.
A UTI can occur when harmful microscopic organisms enter your urinary tract. Although these organisms can include fungi and viruses, most UTIs are caused by bacteria.
Symptoms of infection:
A burning feeling while urinating
Needing to urinate suddenly or more frequently
Urine may have a strong smell, be of a yellow colour and appear cloudy
Pain in your lower stomach
Feeling tired or generally unwell
In older people, (especially those with dementia) changes in behaviour such as severe confusion or agitation
Sudden and unexplained changes in behaviour are often caused by urinary tract infections in people also diagnosed with dementia, this is also known as delirium.
When treated with the correct antibiotics, UTIs tend to pass quickly and cause no further problems - complications are uncommon.
Preventing a UTI is just as important as dealing with all the unwanted symptoms and having to medicate with antibiotics, and your diet can play a key role in doing so. Staying healthy and eating a balanced diet will help to keep your body working to its full potential, this will mean you have a better chance at fighting any infection that may occur. The foods you eat also effect your urine pH, which influences how you contract infections. The higher the levels of pH in your bladder – the higher the chances of developing a UTI are. The pH is the measurement of how acidic or alkaline a person's urine is. Doctors will often ask a person visiting with symptoms of a UTI about their daily diet and the food they eat.
Foods to avoid:
Artificial sweeteners
Caffeine/energy drinks
Citrus fruits like lemons, and other acidic foods
Spicy foods
Alcohol
It is important that you stay well hydrated, especially for someone suffering with a UTI. Not only does being hydrated keep your body strong and healthy it can also have a positive affect on our mood and mental wellbeing.
Tips to manage symptoms of a UTI:
Visit your GP which can lead to a course of antibiotics
Drink 6-8 glasses of water per day - this helps your body to flush out the bacteria
Take paracetamol if you can
Use a hot water bottle to ease pain by placing on lower back, stomach or between the top of the thighs
Drink cranberry juice
Try to fully empty your bladder when urinating
Caring for elderly relatives comes with various considerations, and choosing the right care option is crucial. Home care, also known as domiciliary care, offers personalised assistance tailored to your relative's needs. This can involve live- in carers, who provide round-the-clock support, or hourly care, depending on the level of assistance required. Home care services encompass a range of support, including companion care, respite care, and help with daily tasks. Private carers and care agencies near you can offer in-home services, ensuring that your elderly relative receives care in the comfort of their own space. Whether it's aiding with personal hygiene, managing medications, or offering emotional companionship, home care promotes independent living for the elderly. The cost of live-in care varies, but it provides peace of mind for families, knowing their loved ones are receiving dedicated attention.
Our live-in carers are trained in helping you manage a number of medical symptoms, including UTI and help you or your loved ones get better. To talk to us about live-in care, and to arrange your perfect live-in carer, email hello@access-care.co.uk or call our advisors on 01264 319399 and we'll give you a call back.