Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more than just an unpleasant medical condition. If left untreated, an untreated UTI can cause sepsis and lead to death. Learning how to detect a UTI can be difficult for caretakers of older individuals. Following these simple preventative measures can prevent the infection from starting in the first place. Read on to learn how to prevent a UTI in you or your loved ones.
Regular Hydration
You should aim to drink at least six 8-ounce glasses of water each day. If you find it hard to drink that much plain water, you can stay hydrated by drinking fruit juices, sparkling water and decaffeinated teas, and coffee.
Avoid Holding in Urine
Holding in urine can cause bacterial growth. Relieving yourself helps flush the bacteria out of the bacteria and urinary tract. Don’t wait more than 3 hours to go to the bathroom. And empty your bladder completely before you leave.
Proper Cleaning
After relieving themselves, women should always wipe from front to back. Take precautions to ensure that you constantly wipe from the urethra towards the anus. This is a good practice as it helps to reduce the risk of leading the bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
Adult diapers, often known as briefs, should be changed on a regular basis. They should be checked every two hours or so, and an individual should never be left in soiled briefs for lengthy periods of time. Douches should never be used since they are considerably more likely to transmit germs throughout the body.
Avoid Using Scented Feminine Products
The vagina contains a type of bacteria called lactobacilli, which keeps the pH level balanced. Feminine products that are scented can disturb this balance and allow harmful bacteria to multiply and cause UTIs.
Avoid using products like scented sanitary pads, tampons. Scented powders, soap, deodorant sprays, and bubble baths can also lead to vaginal pH imbalance.
Consume Cranberries and Probiotics
Cranberries are a common home remedy for preventing UTIs. Go for unsweetened, pure cranberry juice instead of the ones laden with sugar. Fresh or frozen cranberries are a good choice too.
You can also try taking probiotic supplements to increase good gut bacteria. Boost your probiotics intake by consuming foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
Reconsider Your Birth Control Options
You are more likely to get a UTI if you are using a diaphragm or spermicide, as they can lead to bacterial growth. If you frequently experience UTIs and are using one of these birth control methods, you might try switching to a water-based lubricant. Alternatively, you can speak to your doctor about using a different birth control method.
Other recommendations from doctors include wearing cotton underwear, taking showers instead of baths, and avoiding tight clothing as it can trap bacteria near the urethra.
Come to Discovery Village At Castle Hills
When you stay at our senior living community, you can rest assured that you are receiving the best care available. To find out more about what we offer, schedule a tour with us.
