URINARY TRACT INFECTION & ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections. Women get urinary tract infections more often than men. Women who have had three urinary tract infections often continue having them. Four out of five such women get another UTI within 18 months of the last UTI infection.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of urinary tract infections and get it treated quickly. Infections of the urinary system (the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra) can be very serious - even life threatening. Caring for someone who has Alzheimer's disease or dementia poses particular problems. They may not be able to verbalize sufficiently well to tell you how they feel or what exactly is wrong. It means it is important to be aware that certain symptoms may mean a person has a urinary tract infection.
Urinary tract infection in the elderly or in people with Alzheimer's can profoundly affect, not only their health, but can result in significant behavioral changes such as increasing confusion and/or aggression. It is always worth considering changes in behavior may be due to infections like a urinary infection or constipation etc.
Causes of urinary tract infections and Alzheimer's diseaseSome people are more likely to get a urinary tract infection than others.

· In women the rate of urinary tract infections gradually increases with age. Why women are more prone to urinary infections than men is unclear.
· People with diabetes have a higher risk of a UTI because of changes in the immune system. Any disorder that suppresses the immune system raises the risk of a urinary infection.
· Any abnormality of the urinary tract that obstructs the flow of urine such as a kidney stone or enlarged prostate gland can slow the flow of urine, thus raising the risk of infection.

Signs/ Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection
· The urine will look cloudy or milky. If blood is present then the color will be reddish color
· Urine can often smell offensive.
· Nausea and even vomiting may occur in kidney infections.
· Frequent urge to urinate but often the amount of urine passed is small.
· Fatigue (you will notice that the person with Alzheimer's may be less willing to carry out tasks or be more reluctant to eat or exercise.)
· Fever (this may mean that the infection has moved into the kidney.)
· Painful, burning sensations in the area of the bladder or urethra, during urination. The person with Alzheimer's may cry out or show distress when urinating.
· Back pain (someone with Alzheimer's may clutch or rub their back.)
· Sudden changes in behavior can be caused by infections such as UTI.

My Perspective

My name is Cheryl Davis, I interned with Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area this semester. As my internship nears its end, I am reminded of the great need for a place such as Alzheimer’s Services. I was a caregiver of a grandfather with Alzheimer’s, but had no education on giving care or support. If only I had known about Alzheimer’s Services.

In the few months that I was here, so many families have been helped. There is so much information on the disease, support groups, sitter services, even Charlie’s Place! I was so encouraged by the love and hope that I saw instilled in the caregivers who came to or called our offices desperate for help. The staff is so helpful and loving. I had quite a few experiences while interning; from preparing for our annual education conference, to going with the caregivers and clients on an outing where we each painted a lovely picture. I was even able to lead a caregiver support group and we talked about caregiver stress; something I as a nurse know quite a bit about. I learned a lot.

When I was informed by Southeastern Louisiana University that my curriculum included an internship, I wasn’t sure if I could do it. I had to get used to being in one place all day, because my job has me driving from place to place. Everything went well for me and the staff was so patient and kind. I am extremely thankful for the experience, and will forever cherish my time spent with Julie and the Alzheimer’s Services staff.