Research shows that the chances of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI) are more common in the summer. As heat and humidity rise, it is easier for germs or bacteria to grow, thus, not staying hydrated this time of year can increase the risk of developing a UTI. There are steps you can take to decrease this risk, but first, an explanation of the urinary system and the causes and symptoms of UTIs.

The urinary system. The urinary tract is a system of organs (kidneys, ureter, urethra and bladder) that filter and eliminate waste products through the urine. This system can be affected by changes such as obstructions and infections. A UTI is a common illness that can affect people in any age group. However, the condition is more common in women and older adults (around half of women will need treatment for at least one UTI during their lifetime and over 10% of women 65 and older report this infection annually). UTIs are the cause of about 25% of all hospitalizations in older adults.

Age-related risk factors that increase the chances of developing a UTI include:

Changing physiology such as atrophying of the vagina and ureter, decreased bladder capacity, altered immune system, prolapse of the bladder, hormonal changes, diabetes and an enlarged prostate.
Certain medications may have side effects that cause urine retention. When urine remains longer in the bladder than usual, it can create an opportunity for bacteria to grow and develop into a UTI. Drugs known as diuretics also may predispose to dehydration which can promote bacterial growth.
Changes in memory can also be a risk factor as the brain may delay signaling the need to void, thus, an individual with cognitive impairment may forget to go to the bathroom. Loss of taste and desire for water can also lead to dehydration.

Symptoms in older adults. The classic symptoms of a UTI are burning, pain, urgency, frequency, blood in the urine, low back pain and fever. In older adults, however, a UTI may also present as confusion, agitation, fatigue, dizziness, decreased appetite, behavior changes and frequent falls. When left untreated, a UTI can develop into urinary incontinence, kidney infection, delirium (severe confusion, disorientation and hallucinations) and sepsis. More severe cases of UTIs can be fatal.

Preventative strategies. There are several steps you can take to lower your risk of developing a UTI:

It is suggested that drinking between 6-8 glasses of water (8 ounces per glass) during waking hours may help to prevent a UTI. If you have a problem with drinking this much water, try adding sliced citrus fruits or cucumbers to flavor the water or consider drinking one-half cup of water hourly from the time you get up to 6pm. With this approach, you will have steadily maintained hydration without over-consuming.
Be mindful of your consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they can cause dehydration.
If you wear incontinence pads, change the pads regularly to minimize the harboring of bacteria.
Practice proper personal hygiene by wiping from front to back.
Consider adding fruits high in vitamin C such as oranges, strawberries, kiwifruit, tomatoes and leafy green vegetables that can lower the pH or acidify the urine discouraging bacterial growth.

Treatment. If you suspect you have a UTI, contact your primary care physician or visit an urgent care. The doctor can recommend next steps, which may include lab work and medication. While a UTI normally passes quickly when treated with antibiotics, it is important to check with your physician to make sure the correct antibiotics are prescribed to combat the infection as well as the right amount to prevent antibiotic overuse.

Pat Riley and Kathleen Lubanski are with Alzheimers Coachella Valley, a community resource for dementia support and education. For more information, call (760) 776.3100 or visit www.cvalzheimers.org.