华体会

Acute confusion or delirium is common in older adults, particularly those with dementia or other cognitive conditions. But did you know that a urinary tract infection (UTI) could be a trigger?

UTIs are one of the most frequently diagnosed infections in older adults. Classic UTI signs and symptoms include:

• Pain or burning while peeing
• Increased urge to pee
• New urinary incontinence (leakage)
• Blood in your pee
• Tenderness in your lower belly
• Mid-back pain, where your kidneys are located (under your ribcage)
• Fever

The Link Between UTIs and Confusion

“We don't fully understand the exact etiology of delirium or confusion in older adults, but we know there are certain risk factors for it,” says Jennifer M. Woodward, MD, a geriatrician at 华体会.

One of these risk factors is infection, such as UTIs, which can worsen or trigger delirium. This is due to several age-related factors, including:

• Weakened immune system. Older adults can develop infections that are more severe than those of younger adults.
• Changes in brain chemistry. UTIs can trigger inflammation, which can disrupt neurotransmitter balance in the brain and lead to confusion.
• Pre-existing conditions. Older adults are more likely to have conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. An infection like a UTI can worsen existing cognitive decline. “When an older adult with dementia develops an infection, such as UTI, they are at risk for developing delirium (or acute confusion),” explains Dr. Woodward. “When this happens, their baseline mental status can worsen and then stay at that level long term.”
• Medication interactions. Taking certain medications, particularly in combination, can lead to altered mental states.

Older adults are also more prone to dehydration, which can cause or worsen confusion.

The Importance of Early Detection

Untreated UTIs can lead to serious complications such as kidney infections, kidney damage or sepsis.

Dr. Woodward does not recommend testing for a UTI if confusion is the only symptom. Although a UTI can cause confusion in an older adult, it’s not likely to be the only symptom; the classic signs and symptoms of a UTI will likely occur as well. Recognizing common symptoms as well as sudden confusion are important for proper diagnosis and treatment.

According to Dr. Woodward, the treatment for a diagnosed UTI is antibiotics, and the treatment time is typically the same for both younger and older adults. “It’s important to not expect a prescription for antibiotics if you or your loved one is only showing signs of sudden confusion without other evidence of a UTI,” says Dr. Woodward. “Unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to bacterial resistance.”

What to Do if You Suspect a UTI

• Contact a medical professional. Describe the symptoms in detail, emphasizing any changes in mental status. Depending on the symptoms, your physician may take a urine sample for testing.
• Consider other possible causes. While UTI could be the culprit for unusual behavior, other conditions 鈥� such as dementia, stroke, dehydration or low blood sugar level 鈥� can also cause confusion. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking fluids (water is best) helps wash bacteria out of the urinary tract.
• Monitor closely. Pay close attention to any changes in behavior or symptoms.

Prevention Tips

There are several things you can do to help avoid UTIs.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Take frequent bathroom breaks. Don’t delay urination.
• Empty your bladder completely.
• Take showers instead of soaking in a bathtub.
• Practice good bathroom hygiene. Regularly clean your genital area. Women should wipe from front to back, especially after a bowel movement, to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra (the small tube that connects to the bladder). Disposable briefs used for incontinence should be changed regularly.
• Urinate after sex to help remove any bacteria that may have entered the urethra.
• Wear cotton underwear that breathes and avoid tight-fitting clothing that can trap moisture and make it easier for bacteria to multiply.