Mangement of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

WHAT IS A URINE INFECTION?

A urine infection occurs when bacteria in any part of the urine system cause symptoms

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP PREVENT A URINE INFECTION?

• Drink enough fluid (6-8 glasses) so that you pass pale coloured urine regularly during the day, and to avoid feeling thirsty, especially during hot weather
• Avoid drinking too many fizzy drinks or alcohol
• There is no proven benefit of cranberry products or cystitis sachets
• Prevent constipation. Ask for advice if needed
• Maintain good control of diabetes

WHAT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS SHOULD YOU LOOK OUT FOR?

• Pain or burning when passing urine
• High or low temperature
• Shivering or shaking
• Urgency (feeling the need to urinate immediately)
• Pain in your lower tummy above pubic area
• Incontinence (wetting yourself more often than usual)
• Passing urine more often than usual
• Cloudy urine, or visible blood in your urine
• Confusion, change in behaviour, or unsteadiness on feet

Self-Helf Resources: 

URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS - A leaflet for older adults and carers.

URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS - A leaflet for women under 65 years with suspected lower urinary tract infections (UTIs) or lower recurrent UTIs (cystitis or urethritis)