Diagnosing and Treating UTIs
Dipstick-style tests can be used to quickly and easily detect bacteria in a urine sample. These UTI test strips show results in a few minutes and don’t require bloodwork or other complicated testing. Dipstick tests, such as the Diagnox UTI test, are available for home use. Easy-to-use home UTI tests allow you to check for a possible UTI in the privacy and comfort of your home. Home testing is often easier for older adults and their caregivers.
A doctor may order a urine culture if a dipstick test shows a possible UTI. A urine culture identifies the type of bacteria present to determine which antibiotics are appropriate for treating the infection. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, you should take the full course of treatment to make sure the infection is completely cured. Not taking all the prescribed doses can cause the infection to return and be more resistant to treatment [8].
In addition to antibiotics, the doctor may recommend options to manage symptoms of UTI. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and bring down a fever. Medications like phenazopyridine can prevent pain during urination. Some supplements, such as cranberry or d-mannose powder, can also relieve symptoms.
In some cases, a dipstick test may show the presence of bacteria even though the individual has no UTI symptoms. This may be due to asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB), a condition where elevated bacteria levels are present but do not lead to a UTI. No treatment is necessary for ASB. Using antibiotics for ASB can lead to drug resistance and make treating future infections more difficult [9].
Preventing UTIs in Elderly People
UTI prevention in elderly people is the best way to avoid the discomfort and complications the infection may cause. There are a few common sense steps older adults and their caregivers can take to prevent urinary tract infections [10]:
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water or other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages keeps urine properly diluted and can lower the amount of bacteria in the bladder. Drinking six to eight glasses of water per day can help prevent UTIs.
Regular Bathroom Use
Going to the bathroom regularly and fully emptying the bladder prevents urine from sitting in your bladder for too long. Bacteria grow best in warm and wet environments. Removing fluid from the bladder inhibits bacterial growth. Most adults should empty their bladder four to eight times per day.
Personal Hygiene
Make sure you wipe front to back when cleaning yourself or an individual you’re caring for. Bacteria around the anus can cause UTIs, so wiping front to back pushes those bacteria away from the urinary opening. In addition, make sure the urinary region is kept clean and dry. Take showers instead of baths, and use gentle, unscented soap to clean the genital area.
Dietary Considerations
Certain dietary supplements or foods may help prevent UTIs.
- D-mannose is a type of naturally occurring sugar that is available in powder form as a dietary supplement. It may be useful for treating and preventing UTIs by making it more difficult for bacteria to take hold.
- Cranberry juice can increase hydration and may help with UTI symptoms. Cranberry is also a source of natural d-mannose and vitamin C, which can boost the immune system.
- Probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir can be a source of beneficial microorganisms. Some research suggests that the good bacteria in probiotic supplements can balance out the harmful bacteria that cause UTIs.
Take Note of Unusual Behavior or Symptoms
Caregivers who assist older adults should be alert to changes in behavior or mood. Older individuals who cannot easily communicate verbally may show distress or discomfort in other ways. Unusual agitation, fatigue, unexplained fever, or changes in bathroom habits may indicate a UTI. Watching for unusual behavior is especially important if the individual is on a catheter or has an underlying condition that can increase UTI risk. Call a healthcare provider for guidance if you have concerns about a potential UTI.
Having a supply of at-home testing kits for UTI early detection can be helpful. Clinical-grade, reliable UTI tests, such as the Diagnox UTI Test, can help you quickly and comfortably ascertain if you or someone you’re caring for has a UTI. The results of a home test can be the starting point for a conversation with your healthcare provider about further testing and treatment.
Conclusion
UTIs can pose a significant health concern for older adults. Understanding the signs of UTIs in the elderly can help caregivers detect UTIs before they become a serious health threat. Preventive measures, using home tests to identify possible UTIs, and working with healthcare providers to address problems can protect the health of older individuals.
