How to Solve the Problem of Urinary Tract Infection in Persons Living with Dementia
One of the harshest problems that Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers face are frequent unidentified urinary tract infections. UTIs can worsen memory loss, make patients seem confused and listless, and sometimes make them seem like they are "just not there".
Researchers have found that undetected urinary tract infections are common in dementia patients. UTIs go undetected because the symptoms are hard to spot in dementia patients, and most patients cannot tell us they are feeling ill or out of sorts.
As a general rule of thumb you should suspect a urinary tract if you see any of the following changes in a person living with dementia:
- A sudden worsening in memory.
- A patient who suddenly seems more confused or disoriented.
- A spike in the level of anxiety being expressed.
- Weakness in walking or the ability to get up out of bed.
- A sudden spike in core body temperature.
Related Information
Chronic Bladder Infection: Is there a cure? - Mayo Clinic
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What I need to know about Urinary Tract Infections
Alzheimer's and Dementia
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