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Urinary Tract Infections Among Older Adults: Nutrition
In other articles, we discussed nonpharmacological strategies that help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) among older adults, such as hydration and cranberry. Now we will look further at UTIs and the effect of diet.
Urinary Tract Infections in Older Adults: Cranberry
Last month we discussed the common problem of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among older adults. The severity of UTIs can range from asymptomatic (without any symptoms) to sepsis [1]. Sepsis occurs as a result of pathogens entering the bloodstream causing an infection and may require hospitalization. Hydration is one strategy to prevent an infection. A second is cranberries.
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].
Prescription use among senior adults
Taking medications seems like a very natural responsibility as part of aging. In fact, most seniors take a prescription drug. Adults over 65 are the largest age group to take medications, due to the amount of health concerns that people acquire [1].