Urinary Tract Infections


REDUCE URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

UTIs are the most frequent complication of wheelchair users. Prolonged immobility causes hypercalcemia, increased urinary calcium output and reduces bladder emptying which can lead to kidney infections.

Frequent standing has been shown to reduce the frequency of urinary tract infections by increasing the ability to empty the bladder fully, as well as increasing circulation and muscle tone. Some users have also experienced improved bowel regularity, reduced constipation and lesser occurrences of accidental bowel movements. Chronic constipation can lead to bowel obstruction.  Frequent standing improves gastric emptying and allows fecal matter to descend with more ease.  If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your physician immediately.

• Fever, chills

• Urgency or unexpected urine leakage

• Increased spasms of legs, abdomen and/or bladder

• Pain above the pubic bone area

• Headache

• Nausea

• Loss of appetite

• Fatigue

• Feeling poorly

• Increased mucus in your urine

• Cloudy and strong smelling urine (unrelated to foods that can cause urine odor)

• Mental confusion (especially in an older person)

• Blood in the urine (enough blood to make the urine the color of cranberry juice)