UTI - Urinary Tract Infection is a common complication for
individuals with voiding dysfunction. An infection occurs when
bacteria grows in the bladder. The most common way for a UTI to
occur in individuals with spinal cord injury is for bacteria to
enter the bladder while catheterising. Other ways are from
delayed use of the toilet or incomplete emptying of urine. The
first signs of a Urinary Tract Infection may be fever, chills,
pain with urination, or increased spasticity. The infection
should be treated quickly, so it does not travel to other parts
of your body, like your kidneys or your blood. UTI's are treated
with antibiotics. To find the most effective antibiotic, urine
is tested to see what kind of bacteria is growing. To kill the
bacteria, antibiotics must be taken until the whole prescription
is gone, not just until you feel better. The bacteria can still
be in your urine until all of the antibiotic is taken. For
chronic and severe infections, some individuals take medication
daily.
