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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Risks for Older Adults

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Risks for Older Adults

Overview

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in older women and men. Things that make older adults more likely to develop UTIs include:

  • An immune system that isn't as strong as when the person was younger.
  • A reduced ability to control urination and bowel movements (incontinence). This increases the chance of getting bacteria into the urinary tract.
  • A hospital stay or living in a long-term care center, where the person may have a urinary catheter inserted, making bladder infections more likely.
  • Problems with the bladder dropping down out of its normal position (bladder prolapse or cystocele). When this happens, the bladder cannot empty completely, making infections more likely.
  • Lack of estrogen in women who have gone through menopause. Lack of estrogen may allow bacteria that can cause UTIs to grow more easily in the vagina or urethra and cause an infection in the bladder.
  • In men, partial blockage of the urinary tract by an enlarged prostate.
  • Other conditions, such as diabetes, lack of activity, poor hygiene, or problems releasing urine.
  • Use of medicines that can cause trouble urinating or a complete inability to urinate. If you think your medicine may be causing urination problems, talk to your doctor.

Older adults also are more likely to have conditions that complicate UTIs, such as a lower resistance to infection. They may require more thorough evaluation and longer antibiotic treatment than young adults who have uncomplicated infections.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

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Urinary Tract Infections in Teens and Adults

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