Article Library
Urinary Tract Infections in Older Adults: Dehydration
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common problem in older adults. General symptoms include painful urination, the urge to void frequently, bloody urine, and lower abdominal pain or cramping [1]. The infection can migrate to the kidneys, causing chills, nausea, vomiting, and low back pain. Of note, the older adult can have a much different clinical presentation, in which atypical symptoms may manifest as confusion, delirium, lethargy, and new incontinence [2].
Water’s Balancing Act
Our body is a lot like the earth’s waterways. We are dependent on water because it is vital for life.
Water Is Vitality
You may know water is vital to life. Can you explain how? Consider a houseplant. When neglecting to water the soil, the dirt holding the plant’s roots becomes parched. The leaves turn yellow and brown. Eventually, the plant, which was once initially full of green color and vibrance, will die. Similarly, water is necessary for humans to survive and thrive.