Naples UTI Attorney
Nursing home patients sometimes suffer from medical issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). A UTI happens when bacteria inflames any part of the urinary system, such as the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and ureters. UTIs are very treatable for younger people, but for the elderly, they can lead to serious injury or death.
UTIs are preventable infections. Despite this, many UTIs are caused by staffing issues and poor infection control measures. Elderly nursing home patients are routinely diagnosed with serious infections that ultimately can be life-threatening if left untreated. In fact, UTIs are the second most frequent infection in nursing home patients.
A UTI can clear up in about 48 hours if treated quickly. However, nursing home negligence often delays medical attention, which can lead to permanent and even fatal, consequences. This is why you need legal help. A Naples UTI attorney from Kohn Law can assess your case and help you understand your legal rights.
What to Know About UTIs
Catheters are often a major source of UTIs. They can also be caused by factors such as weakened immune systems, co-existing medical conditions, bacteria from sexual intercourse, and cognitive illnesses such as dementia. UTIs can also be caused by negligent nursing home staff mishandling catheters.
Many urinary issues are caused by dehydration. Older adults tend to drink less due to incontinence and difficulties in the bathroom. This makes their urine more concentrated and rich with bacteria.
While older people in general are more likely to develop UTIs, older women are especially at risk. That’s because they experience estrogen deficiency, which impacts bacteria in the vagina.
It’s helpful to be aware of the symptoms of a UTI, which include:
- Strong, persistent urge to urinate
- Cloudy urine
- Cloudy urine
- Pain in the pubic bone area
- Blood in the urine
- Urine with a strong odor
- Red or bright pink urine
If the UTI progresses into the kidneys, it can cause symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lower back pain
UTIs can sometimes cause complications such as the following:
- Narrowing of the urethra in men
- Permanent kidney damage
- Recurrent infections
- Sepsis (blood poisoning)
There are a couple things that the elderly (and people of all ages) can do to prevent UTIs. The best thing to do is stay hydrated. Frequent water drinking leads to urination, which clears the urinary system of bacteria buildup. Cranberry juice is a common preventative measure. Wiping from front to back after using the toilet can also be helpful, especially for women.
Contact Kohn Law Today
UTIs are infections that can be dangerous in the elderly. They happen often in nursing homes due to neglect and poor care.
If your loved one has suffered a UTI in a nursing home, see how Kohn Law can help. We’ll help you hold the nursing home facility accountable for the infection. Schedule a free consultation with a Naples UTI attorney by filling out the online form or calling (813) 428-8504.
