Expert: Michalene Peticca - 6/10/2008

Question
My 82 year old mother was diagnosed with another urinary tract infection about a week and a half ago. It seemed to come on very quickly and the symptoms were severe--she was really "absent," confused, believing I was alternately her mother, sister, neighbor from childhood, etc. She has never had such symptoms before. After being on an antibiotic since diagnosis she appears more aware but is still struggling with things she could do easily before (dress, make tea, brush teeth, etc.). Is there any other physical disorder I should be asking her doctor to check on or is such a lengthy recovery "normal"? Will she recover fully to where she was before the infection? Is there any way to spot a UTI more quickly (I've been taking her urine in to have it tested about every two weeks)?

Thank you so much,
Valerie

Answer
Hello Valerie,

Thank you for writing.  I hope your mother is on the road to recovery.

As you've seen, Urinary Tract infections (UTI) can cause severe delirium in an older individual.  The course of treatment is longer and the recovery time is longer as well.   This is "normal" unfortunately for an aged individual.

She should recover fully to her pior abilities....just keep her walking and trying to do all her prior activities so her muscles do not get weak.

Spotting a UTI usually begins with some sort of personality change.....irritability, sleeping more, lack of hunger, etc.  

The best way to AVOID a UTI is to have your mother drink plenty of water daily.  Avoid caffeine as much as possible.

Wishing your mom a speedy recovery!

Best Regards,

Michalene Peticca, M.A.