UTI Facts: Preventative Care and Management

Preventative Care and Management UTI FAQS What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)? A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enters and begins to overgrow in the urinary tract, causing infection and creating symptoms. This can affect the urethra, ureters, bladder, and/or kidneys (any part of the urinary tract). A UTI is different from bacteriuria, which is a diagnosis of the presence of bacteria in urine but with no presentable symptoms. How Do Intermittent Catheter Users Get a UTI? Individuals who use intermittent catheters can be at risk of a UTI because a catheter is a foreign object to the body and can sometimes carry bacteria from outside the body inside the urinary tract to the bladder. What Are Some Common UTI Symptoms? Increased urge to urinate (&/or catheterize) more frequently or even immediately Leakage A burning or stinging sensation in the urethra Fever and/or chills Nausea Headache Mild pain in the lower back (location of kidneys) Fatigue, tiredness Cloudy urine Sediment or blood in the urine Bad or distinctly different smell in the urine What Can You Do to Prevent or Care for UTI? 1. Use each catheter only once and then dispose of it. Reusing catheters is not hygienic, and the risk of UTIs may greatly increase with this practice. 2. Drink enough water every day to keep your body properly hydrated. 3. Empty your bladder as often as your doctor has prescribed. 4. Make sure to use a well-lubricated, sterile catheter. 180 MEDICAL http://www.180medical.com Toll-Free (877) 688-2729