Wait, huh?

Answer to Mystery Diagnosis #4:

Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary System 

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection that starts in your urinary system.  The urinary system is composed of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.  Most UTIs involve the infection of the lower urinary tract – the bladder and the urethra.  A UTI is caused by a pathogenic organism (bacteria, fungi, or parasite).  The most common cause of UTI infections is the Escherichia coli bacterial strains that usually inhabit the colon.  Other bacteria that cause UTI infections include; Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, and Neisseria.  Fungi that can cause UTIs consist of Candida (yeast) and parasites such as Trichomonas. 

There are many risk factors of UTIs.  In general, any interruption or impedance of the normal flow of urine is a risk factor.  Women are more susceptible than men to UTIs because a woman’s urethra is shorter than a man’s.  Also, a woman’s urethra’s exit is close to the colon, which allows easier entry for pathogens.   

Signs and Symptoms (young individuals):

·        Frequent urge to urinate

·        Pain or burning during urination

·        Cloudy urine

·        Blood in urine can be present

·        Abdominal discomfort

·        Fever

Signs and Symptoms (in the elderly):

·        Mild or NO symptoms of UTI as seen in younger individuals)

·        Weakness

·        Lethargic

·        Sudden onset of confusion

·        Agitation

Detection of UTI:

·        Urine sample – a urinalysis will detect a high number of white blood cells (leukocytes), + bacteria, and + nitrite. 

Treatment of UTI

·        Antibiotics such as Ciproflaxacin (Cipro)

·        Home remedies include; cranberry juice, yogurt, and vitamin C.

Most UTIs cause no complications if they are treated quickly.  However, if left untreated UTIs can lead to dehydration, kidney failure, and sepsis. 

In Norma’s case, she displays the typical signs of an UTI that occurs in the elderly – a sudden onset of confusion and agitation. 

References:

Davis, Charles P., and Jerry R. Balentine. "Urinary Tract Infection (UTI In Adults) Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - What Causes a UTI on MedicineNet." MedicineNet.com. Web. 31 Oct. 2011. <http://www.medicinenet.com/urine_infection/page2.htm>.