Content originally from Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System
Being thirsty is an early sign that you need to have a drink, but headaches, fatigue, irritability, poor concentration and poor mental and physical performance may all be signs too. Simply having a drink of water might help to prevent such symptoms.
Unfortunately, all too often not drinking enough can also cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). Dehydration affects so many of us, particularly as we get older.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) may include:
- Pain or a burning sensation when going for a wee (urinating).
- Needing to wee more often than usual (including during the night).
- Needing a wee suddenly or more urgently than usual.
- Cloudy wee.
- Blood in your wee.
- Lower tummy pain or pain in back just under your ribs.
- A high temperature or feeling hot and shivery.
- A very low temperature below 36C.
- Your wee may also be dark or smell. If this is your only symptom, it might be because you have not been drinking enough water/fluid.
If a person with a memory impairment or dementia has a UTI, this can cause sudden and severe confusion known as ‘delirium’. This can also happen to people fitted with a urinary catheter. Their symptoms may include:
- Changes in behaviour, such as acting agitated or confused (delirium)
- Wetting themselves (incontinence) that is worse than usual
- New shivering or shaking (rigors)
There are things you can do, to help to prevent UTIs:
Ensure regular drinks, like water, to boost hydration. When you don’t drink enough water, your wee becomes more concentrated and less effective at flushing out bacteria that can lead to an infection. Herbal teas and certain fruits like watermelon and cucumber can also help keep you hydrated.
Sometimes people don’t like to drink, as they are worried about getting to the toilet. If someone you care for is less than able to access the toilet, reassure them and provide support to do so at regular intervals so they are confident to drink enough.
Support those you care for to keep clean and understand the importance of personal hygiene, showering daily where possible, especially if they suffer from incontinence.
Check and change incontinence pads often.
Ladies, don’t forget to wipe from front to back when going to the toilet. Avoid using irritating products such as scented soaps or gels and sprays around the sensitive areas.
If you suspect a UTI you should contact a health and care professional (your local GP team/ the community pharmacist) or contact NHS 111.
SWF Health & Social Care Group 