OverviewA urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system. The urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. Show
Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than are men. If an infection is limited to the bladder, it can be painful and annoying. But serious health problems can result if a UTI spreads to the kidneys. Health care providers often treat urinary tract infections with antibiotics. You can also take steps to lower the chance of getting a UTI in the first place. SymptomsUTIs don't always cause symptoms. When they do, they may include:
In older adults, UTIs may be overlooked or mistaken for other conditions. Types of urinary tract infectionsEach type of UTI may result in more-specific symptoms. The symptoms depend on which part of the urinary tract is affected.
When to see a doctorContact your health care provider if you have symptoms of a UTI. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips
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Risk factorsUTIs are common in women. Many women experience more than one UTI during their lifetimes. Risk factors for UTIs that are specific to women include:
Other risk factors for UTIs include:
ComplicationsWhen treated promptly and properly, lower urinary tract infections rarely lead to complications. But left untreated, UTIs can cause serious health problems. Complications of a UTI may include:
PreventionThese steps may help lower the risk of UTIs:
Urinary tract infection (UTI) care at Mayo Clinic Sept. 14, 2022
RelatedNews from Mayo ClinicProducts & ServicesHow do you tell if an elderly person has a UTI?Seniors experiencing UTIs can show a sudden change in behavior and symptoms that may appear to be associated with cognitive issues, such as:. Frequent falls.. Confusion.. Dizziness.. Agitation or aggression.. Fatigue and lethargy.. Decreased appetite.. How do Elderly act when they have a UTI?UTIs can cause sudden confusion (also known as delirium) in older people and people with dementia. If the person has a sudden and unexplained change in their behaviour, such as increased confusion, agitation, or withdrawal, this may be because of a UTI.
What happens if a UTI goes untreated in elderly?When left untreated, UTIs in the elderly can cause serious problems, including permanent kidney damage and sepsis — a generalized and potentially life-threatening infection.
What is a common UTI symptom that specifically affects the elderly?Here's our process. The classic symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) are burning pain and frequent urination. UTIs may not cause these classic symptoms in older adults. Instead, older adults, especially those with dementia, may experience behavioral symptoms such as confusion.
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