Urinary Tract Infection

Background

Symptoms and signs

An urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system — kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men. Infection limited to bladder can be painful and annoying. However, serious consequences can occur if a UTI spreads to kidneys and blood stream. The annual incidence of UTIs in the elderly is around 10% and it may be as high as 30% for those living in nursing homes and other institutions.The mortality rate in bacteremic elderly patients with UTI is as high as 33%.

In severe urinary tract infection, other systemic manifestations may arise, including high fever, shaking and chills, nausea, vomiting, palpitation, dizziness and even collapse. It can also be complicated by kidney damage and renal failure.

Different types of UTI may result in different signs and symptoms, depending on the part of urinary tract affected.

Part of urinary tract affected

Kidneys (acute pyelonephritis) Signs & Symptoms - Pain at upper back and flank

Bladder (cystitis)

Urethra (urethritis) - Pelvic pressure - Lower abdomen discomfort

- Burning sensation with urination

Urinary tract infections don’t always cause signs and symptoms, but when they do they may include: - A strong, persistent urge to urinate - A burning sensation when urinating - Passing frequent, small amount of urine - Urine that appears cloudy - Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored — a sign of blood in the urine - Smelly urine - Pelvic pain, in women

! High or persistent fever ! Chills or rigors ! Loin pain

As a first aider

- Recognize red flags and manage it as medical emergency - Consult family doctor early if there is symptom of UTI

Do’s

1. Seek emergency medical help call 999 in case of severe infection with systemic symptoms. For a severe UTI, you may need treatment with intravenous antibiotics in a hospital 2. Give paracetamol as indicated to lower body temperature and decrease pain 3. Take the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by doctor to ensure that the infection is completely gone 4. Drink plenty of water to dilute urine and keep bladder empty 5. Wipe from front to back after urinating and after a bowel movement in female. This helps to prevent bacteria in the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra

Don’ts

1. Use potentially irritating feminine products. Using deodorant sprays or other feminine products, such as douches and powders, in the genital area can irritate the urethra 2. Drink coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks containing citrus juices and caffeine until your infection has cleared