Urinary Tract Infections and Intermittent Catheterization - Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
January 18 2023
What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) can affect any part of the urinary system and is caused by bacteria. Most commonly, the infection involves the lower urinary tract, which is the bladder and the urethra. Almost 90% of UTIs are caused by the bacteria 'Escherichia coli (E-Coli)' and this bacterium is often present in our gut without causing any harm. Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men, for several reasons. Infections limited to the lower urinary tract can be very painful and troubling, but normally go away on their own after a few days. If not, treatment with antibiotics might be required. However, if the UTI is not defeated and bacteria spreads to the kidneys, the consequence may be serious. In all cases a UTI can be very troublesome – but there are steps to take to reduce the risks of getting a UTI.
Topics: Bladder management, Bladder dysfunction, UTI, Urinary Tract Infection
Few women are alarmed by a tiny urine leak as they lift heavy items, cough, or jog. A protective daily pad and most of us brush it off. But when urine leakage gets more serious and grows out of control, it becomes a major concern that limits us and dictates our lives. This is exactly what happened to Anne. A 44-year-old mother of one son, from northwestern Germany, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), back in 2005.
Topics: Bladder dysfunction, Intermittent Catheterization, MS
Distressed by my inability to control my bladder
September 21 2022
A spinal cord injury coupled with an early childhood polio infection complicated her bladder control. Intermittent catheterization has long been part of her life.
Read Selma's story in her own words.
Do you suffer from bowel leakage? For years, Fiona suffered in silence. She grew accustomed to being on edge and to keeping a look-out for the nearest toilet. A tiny bowel care product was all it took to put her mind at ease.
Topics: Bowel management, bowel disorder, accidental bowel leakage
Holidays... ah! Carefree, relaxing and fun! But wait! You don’t want to let a sly urinary tract infection join you for your precious vacation! Although there’s no fail-safe method for avoiding them, there are some small steps you can take to help stop extra bladder visitors joining you on your holiday.
Topics: Travelling with catheters, LoFric
