Urinary tract infection (UTI) is not only one of the most common health conditions affecting aging adults in assisted living communities in Chalmette, LA, but it’s also one of the most easily treated when caught early on. UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and travel up toward the kidneys. These infections are often caused by Escherichia coli (E. Coli). However, some types of Staphylococcus Aureus can also cause UTIs, as well as other types of bacteria like Klebsiella pneumoniae or Proteus mirabilis – all of which present a severe threat to aging adults in assisted living communities who have a weakened immune system due to age-related conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
Understand The Symptoms And Risk Factors Of a UTI
The symptoms of a UTI include pain, burning, and urgency (the feeling that you have to urinate). Risk factors for UTIs include incontinence, diabetes or neurological problems; the use of catheters or diuretics; recent hospitalization or surgery; low fluid intake (less than 2 liters per day); immobility due to illness or injury; poor hygiene practices around the perineum (the area between your anus and genitals); poor nutrition due to poor appetite from other conditions such as dementia.
Empty Your Bladder When You Need To, To Help Prevent A UTI
If you’re in an assisted living community, ask the caregiver to remind you to urinate every 2-4 hours. If you have trouble doing this on your own, let them know, and they can help. Set the alarm on your phone or set up a reminder system with another member of your family or friends who lives nearby, so they know when it’s time for another trip to the bathroom.
Eat Plenty Of Fiber And Stay Hydrated
Eating a diet high in fiber and drinking plenty of water can help prevent UTIs. Fiber helps keep your digestive system healthy, making it less likely to harbor bacteria that cause infection. The National Kidney Foundation recommends that adults consume 25 grams of fiber daily, but most people need more (the average American gets only about 15 grams). If you need to figure out how much fiber is in your diet or if you need more, ask your healthcare provider for advice.
Be Careful With The Antibacterial Soaps You Might Use
Antibacterial soaps can kill off good bacteria and make it harder for you to fight a UTI. If you want to use antibacterial soap, be sure it’s the kind that doesn’t contain triclosan (a common ingredient in many products). Triclosan has been shown to disrupt hormones and causes cancer in lab animals; some scientists believe it may do the same in humans. Avoid using soap when bathing or showering; plain water is fine!
Some Medications Can Cause Or Aggravate UTIs
Some medications can cause or aggravate UTIs. If you have a UTI, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help treat it. However, some drugs are known to increase the likelihood of developing UTIs in people at risk, especially if they’re taking diuretics (water pills) or steroids. Talking with your doctor about which medications you take regularly and any side effects they might cause is important.
Conclusion
UTIs are a common problem for the elderly and can be challenging to manage. While there is no way to prevent UTIs completely, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing one and treat it if necessary. This article has provided helpful tips on managing UTIs in assisted living communities.
