Urinary tract infections are very common in patients suffering from a spinal cord injury. One of the reasons for the high rate is that catheters can push bacteria from outside the body up into the bladder. There is also the issue of not being able to fully empty the bladder. Urine is a breeding ground for bacteria inside the bladder. Once an infection has developed it can spread to the kidneys and eventually even to the bloodstream. If an infection is left untreated it could possibly lead to kidney failure and permanent damage to your kidneys. You can lower the risk of infection by diluting your urine by drinking plenty of fluids, emptying your bladder regularly, and always washing your hands with soap before and after your bathroom visit. The average SCI patient who uses catheters will suffer from 2-3 infections a year.
Symptoms of an urinary tract infection:
Cloudy urine possibly containing blood
Back pain
Fever
Chills
Needing the empty the bladder more frequently
Burning sensation
A urinary tract infection is normally identified by the doctor through a sample specimen for culture. Treatment almost always consists of antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Drinking cranberry juice is also recommended by most physicians to flush out the bladder. Patients who use long term indwelling catheters are more prone to infection than those who use an Intermittent Catheterization Program (ICP). Indwelling catheters require cleaning and offer an open pathway to the bladder for any bacteria that was left behind. Hygiene and proper catheter cleaning is the easiest way to prevent yourself from developing recurring infections.
Urinary tract infections can be extremely painful and are not a pleasant experience. Take the extra two minutes to make sure you are being as careful as possible. Do not allow sterile surfaces to touch any surface outside of the packaging and wash your hands before and after to remove bacteria before it can be spread to other surfaces. If you take the time to do those two things you will greatly reduce your chances of getting an infection.
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