UTIs cause confusion in seniors

September 10, 2012 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I think people need to be aware of this. My otherwise healthy mother, age 81, has had two urinary tract infections this year that presented with only delirium and confusion. She had no need to use the bathroom, no pain or burning, only a rather sudden onset of frightening confusion, including hallucinations.

She has been diagnosed with depression and mild cognitive impairment/early dementia. I understand from two nurses that delirium is often the only symptom that presents in elderly folks with UTIs. It is very scary but easily tested for and cured with antibiotics. I worry about others who do not know about this and whose loved ones end up in danger if no one knows about this. I hope you will spread the word. Thank you.
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Honey each day keeps the doctor away

August 18, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I have been consuming at least 4 ounces of pure honey every day because of repeated urinary tract infections. Shouldn’t that help, or should I try D-Mannose? I’m an 80-year-old female.

DEAR READER: Bladder and urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urethra because of an interruption in the usual flow of urine, kidney infection, kidney stones, urethral strictures, an enlarged prostate in men or poor general hygiene. Some patients with disorders such as diabetes, cancer and HIV are at increased risk of developing UTIs.
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Are antibiotics always good?

June 10, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I get frequent UTIs, especially after intercourse. How do I convince my doctor that a low-dosage refillable antibiotic instead of a seven-day treatment is the way to go for my situation?
I have taken to saving a pill or two from my prescription so that when I feel the onset of an infection, I can take one pill and drink plenty of water to thwart a full-blown episode.

Also, what is your opinion on D-Mannose as a treatment? I read about it online and am considering giving it a try. I can’t drink cranberry juice because I have also been diagnosed with interstitial cystitis, and the acid irritates my bladder.
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Cranberries for UTIs

March 19, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: At one time, somebody suggested eating a berry for a urinary-tract infection, but I don’t remember the name of the berry.

DEAR READER: It’s the cranberry. At the first sign of a urinary-tract infection, drink at least 16 ounces of 100 percent cranberry juice each day until symptoms disappear. The properties in cranberry juice will interfere with the ability of bacteria to adhere to the bladder tissue. Be sure to read labels to avoid purchasing cranberry-juice cocktail, which has other juices or ingredients in the blend.

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Recurrent UTIs need further testing

March 30, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I have been having recurring urinary-tract infections. I’ve undergone cystoscopy and ultrasound, and even had dye in my kidneys. All looks fine. I’ve been taking Vesicare. Do you have any suggestions?

DEAR READER: Request a clean-catch urine and sensitivity test, even if one has been done in the past. Any bacteria can be cultured and tested against specific antibiotics to determine which one will be most effective in treating the infection. Then ask your physician about low-dose antibiotics for perhaps as long as six months, or single-dose medication at the start of symptoms.

In the interim, drink 100 percent cranberry juice daily. Drink plenty of water and avoid feminine hygiene sprays and scented douches. If you remain unsuccessful in controlling this unpleasant disorder, request a referral to a urologist.
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Finding a prevention for UTIs

March 6, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 68-year-old female. I am now on medication for yet another urinary-tract infection. This is my fourth infection in four months. I have been to my family doctor twice and to urgent care twice because two happened over a weekend. The pressure, burning and hurting just seems to come on rapidly, along with running to the bathroom real often.

Some background information: I have had bronchitis, a colonoscopy, hernia repair and my right knee scoped. I got the hernia shortly after I had the colonoscopy.
Are there any preventive options I can practice, because I seem to be prone to these infections? I do not like taking antibiotics or any other medicine. I’m an active person who loves to walk and exercise moderately. [Read more…]

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Painful night-time urination needs testing

February 12, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: My 63-year-old wife has been disturbed for many years by nocturnal urges to urinate that are accompanied by pain. The episodes occur three to four times a night and disturb her sleep because she has to use the toilet.

She periodically uses Vagifem (vaginal estrogen pills) but continues to wake up. She tried Detrol but it made her feel terrible. This has created a long-term problem that lessens her enjoyment of life. Any thoughts?
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UTI causes foot, ankle swelling

January 30, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a T10 (mid-back) paraplegic in good health. About once a year I get an attack of chills, shakes, fever, etc., that are usually caused by a urinary tract infection. In every instance, my left foot and ankle swell, turn red, and stay hot well after my temperature has returned to normal. The redness and swelling go away after about a week and then the foot begins to peel just like it’s been badly sunburned. I have no light-touch sensation in the foot (or below the point of injury) but I know it “hurts” because it is very spastic until it returns to normal. I have asked various doctors about this but have not received an explanation. One doctor said the infection originates in the foot. Does that seem reasonable to you?

DEAR READER: Yes. But I am also concerned about the possibility of a recurring infection the source of which is still unknown.
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