UTI May be Cause of Sudden Confusion in Elderly

A Urinary Tract Infection May Cause an Older Person to be Confused

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A UTI can cause acute confusion in elders - Clarita
A UTI can cause acute confusion in elders - Clarita
Sometimes the only symptom of a Urinary Tract Infection in the elderly is acute confusion. Learn about UTI symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures for seniors.

If an older person becomes suddenly confused, some people may think that the elder must be developing Alzheimer’s Disease. Others may mistakenly assume that confusion is normal for all older people. If seeking advice from a healthcare provider regarding a quick onset of confusion, you might be surprised if the doctor orders a urine specimen. Actually, a urine specimen is not a bad idea since urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause of delirium in the elderly.

UTI is Common Infection in the Elderly

Urinary tract infections, with or without symptoms, are quite common in the elderly.

  • According to a 2005 article in Drugs Aging by Florian M.E. Wagenlehner et. al. entitled Asymptomatic Bacteriuria in Elderly Patients, 20-25% of women and 10% of men over the age of 65 have bacteria in the urine without symptoms, also known as asymptomatic bacteriuria.
  • People over 80 years are even more likely to develop asymptomatic bacteriuria: over half of women and over a third of men.
  • According to The Merck Manual of Geriatrics, as many as 10% of all elders have symptomatic UTIs.

Asymptomatic (without symptom) UTIs in the elderly are usually not treated unless the benefits outweigh the risks, but recognizing and properly treating a symptomatic UTI in an elderly person may help prevent more serious infections and complications.

Common Symptoms of UTI in Elders

  • Painful urination
  • Frequency or more frequent urination
  • Incontinence or incontinence that is unusual for that person
  • Flank pain
  • Fever
  • Blood in the urine
  • Confusion or delirium

Common Risk Factors for UTI in the Elderly

  • Use of urinary catheters
  • Living in a long-term care facility or nursing home
  • Hormonal factors such as estrogen deficiency in women
  • Anatomical factors such as an enlarged prostrate in men or a cystocele in women
  • Functional factors such as Parkinson’s disease or dementia
  • Metabolic factors such as diabetes
  • Factors related to immunity such as increased cytokines and acute phase proteins

Measures to Prevent UTI in Seniors

Prevention is the best and safest approach.

  • Limit the use of chronic indwelling catheters, such as a Foley
  • If a catheter is necessary, perform appropriate catheter care and consistently use appropriate infection control guidelines while maintaining a closed drainage system.
  • Recognize and replace an obstructed catheter.
  • Prevent catheter trauma, such as pulling on tubing with a transfer from bed to chair.
  • Use generally accepted hygienic measures, such as keeping the perineal area clean and dry and wiping from front to back.
  • Oral lactulose showed promising results in a study published in the 1989 Journal of Hospital Infections entitled Lowered prevalence of infection with lactulose therapy in patients in long-term hospital care.
  • Intravaginal estriol is often recommended for postmenopausal women with recurrent UTIs due to studies showing significantly lower rates of UTI with the use of estriol.
  • Certain vaccinations may be recommended for special populations.
  • Future studies are focusing on developing materials in urinary catheters that resist biofilm formation, according to a 2005 article in Drugs and Aging entitled Catheter-related urinary tract infections by Lindsay Nicolle.

Confusion (or Delirium) Related to UTI May be Reversed

Is sudden confusion permanent? The answer to that may depend on whether or not and how quickly a cause is determined. Caregivers of the elderly should be particularly watchful for changes in an elder’s mental status and should contact a healthcare provider of any acute confusion or sudden worsening of existing confusion. Ruling out a UTI and other infections would be an appropriate early step if an elder suddenly became confused or had worsening confusion. Other causes of sudden confusion and contributing factors, such as sleep apnea, should also be ruled out. Early treatment of a symptomatic UTI may prevent more serious symptoms and complications and can quite possibly result in a return to the elder’s normal mental status.

Readers may also wish to read about what causes different colors of urine and how to implement a bladder retraining program for overactive bladder.

Consult your healthcare provider for any specific concerns related to an elder's health. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Katrena Wells, Photo by Cyndi Allison, All Rights Reserved

Katrena Wells - Katrena Wells is a RN in NC with 17 1/2 years of experience in oncology, an educator since 1995, and has taught exercise classes since ...

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63 Comments

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Sep 10, 2010 7:51 AM
Guest :
I found this usefull. My Grandmother who is in hospital after an operation is experiencing about every minuite or so total confusion about where she is, who's with her and also talking about my Grandfather (been dead over 20 years) she was looked at by the doctor yesterday who thinks it may be a urine infection - I thought that sounded ridiculous until I looked it up and found this article, I had no idea that this could be the cause. Thanks for sharing.
Chris.
Sep 10, 2010 10:02 PM
Katrena Wells :
Thanks so much for taking the time to write your comment on my article describing how seniors may experience confusion related to a UTI. I had hoped that this article might help someone in a situation such as yours. I'm actively writing other seniors' health articles, and I hope you and other readers will click on my name to find my profile to see my blog and other articles!
Oct 2, 2010 7:23 PM
Guest :
My mother, who just recently turned 74, has been having 'mental' issues. Hearing 'voices', thinks they are messing with her electronics. With the exception of that, my mother is still her fiesty self. I called my EPA at work, who told me about UTI, which, like the previous comment, thought it was ridicules...until I started researching this past week. I'm currently looking for a geriatric doctor (who excepts Medicare). I'm hoping by the grace of God that this is what's the matter with my mom...time will tell. Thanks for this article. Just another piece of informative news I needed.
Oct 2, 2010 8:41 PM
Katrena Wells :
I'm sorry to hear that your mother is experiencing problems. A UTI is usually something that is fairly simple to treat in many people, so I also hope that is the underlying problem. I've written about several common causes of confusion (linked above) that you may also find helpful. I hope her doctor is able to find a cause so that it can be corrected.
Oct 9, 2010 4:53 PM
Guest :
this artical has been very helpfull for me do to me going to school and having to find out how a uti may effect the elderly i have a lot of experince but didnt no quiet all of this thank yo u
Oct 12, 2010 6:50 PM
Guest :
My mother is in the hospital with sudden confusion and hallucinations. They are running tests but state it could be UTI, which it turns out she has. She is getting antibiotics but has still had these sx's after 3 days. I, too, thought the doctor was nuts but just read your article. Thank you for this informaion. She is 87 but has never been like this. Now I know the doctors are on track.
Karen
Oct 12, 2010 9:08 PM
Katrena Wells :
Thanks for taking the time to let me know that my article about UTI and confusion in older adults was helpful to you!
Oct 12, 2010 9:18 PM
Katrena Wells :
Karen,

I'm glad they found a possible source of your mother's confusion and hope that she will enjoy a full recovery soon.
Oct 18, 2010 3:01 AM
Guest :
Is it possible that the bacteria is resistant to antibiotics and the infection won't be cured.. My mom is on her 4th different antibiotic and still acts with confusion.qq
Oct 18, 2010 7:41 AM
Guest :
My grandmother is in a similar state. She has recently been behaving in a very confused and agitated way very different to her usual self. She was taken into hospital last week and doctors diagnosed a UTI and stated that to be the cause of her symptoms. I feel the awareness of UTIs in our elderly population should be raised as I am sure there are thousands of people experiencing such problems without even realising the reason.
Oct 18, 2010 9:38 AM
Katrena Wells :
Yes, it is possible that UTI can be caused by resistant bacteria. A person's immunity also plays a large part in how well an infection can be cleared up. The treatment and change in environment can also contribute to confusion in older populations. Hopefully, they will find a treatment that works for your mom. I'm sorry to hear that she's had such a difficult time getting rid of this infection. Sometimes teaching hospitals can offer additional options for people who are experiencing infections that are particularly difficult to treat.
Oct 18, 2010 9:44 AM
Katrena Wells :
I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother and hope that she recuperates soon. Sometimes the confusion will leave as quickly as it appeared once the infection begins to clear; however, sometimes it takes quite a while for a person to get back to their regular state of mind.
Nov 29, 2010 1:50 PM
Guest :
My mother is 101 and in a nursing home. She is there because of a severe UTI a few years back. It affected her mind and mobility. She regain her mind but not mobility. She continues to have chronic UTI's, the only symptom is confusion. Her med records stated a "clean catch" to be done on a PRN basis. However, all of a sudden this has been changed because she has a new MD and the nurse tells her she doesn't presents with other symptoms: fever, burning, and etc. and the facility does not want to do a "clean catch". She NEVER presents with those symptoms...only confusion. I am terribly frustrated fighting this situation. I thank you for your article. Maybe this will convince the "powers" at the nursing home. B
Dec 3, 2010 6:44 AM
Guest :
I was mislead by this article-this is the story-my Mom age 94 had SIADH and chronic hyponatremia=-due to both she was fluid restricted on a daily basis. In the past she had numerous UTI's-but NEVER with confusion. I mistakenly thought she had "just" another UTI-so took her to the lab and it turns out she did have a UTI-BUT-as I have learned the confusion can mean more-she had a blood infection and pnemonia which did not present itself until the next day. I should of known as this was not the norm for my Mom. She was hospitalized, but talked like she was crazy for 72 hours with no rest. She was started on strong antibiotics , but slowly went downhill for 3 days and passed away 5 days after the UTI was diagnosed. So please do not always think the mental confusion is just a symptom of a UTI-it could be more-
Dec 3, 2010 7:01 AM
Katrena Wells :
First, I want to say congratulations on being blessed with a mother who is 101-years-old! I do hope that you are able to speak with her healthcare provider and advocate for her special needs. You always have the right to question doctor's orders and to seek more information. Chronic UTIs are difficult to treat effectively, but I hope that you guys are able to find something that will be in your mother's best interests.
Dec 5, 2010 11:10 AM
Katrena Wells :
People often think that a UTI is just a simple infection in older adults, but even
the most "simple" infection can have very serious effects in seniors. I am
sorry to hear of your loss.
Dec 27, 2010 11:00 AM
Guest :
This article was helpful. However I have a question. You say that the confusion can clear up eventually. Also that being in strange surroundings doesn't help. my aunt had this for over aweek before I could convince her to get medical care. She was out of her mind and no one would help me in the medical community because she kept refusing the care. I finally convinced her to go to the hospital and she was discovered to have a UTI after a month she is in rehab and is stillnot herself and paranoid. She lives alone and I'm looking into long term care but I don't want to remove her from her home only to find she will recover in a month or two. She is 76 and up until this has been mentally sharp. I'm really lost as to what to do.
Dec 30, 2010 11:18 PM
Guest :
I found the article to be very helpful and like your other readers I did not know something as simple as UTI infections could affect the mind. It is comforting to know that this possible can be resolved and hopefully my mom will be back to her normal self. She too had many of the symptoms of excessive urination, fever, and sudden confusion of who or where she was--eventully we had to have her hopitalized. My family had thought she made had a stroke because at 82 she is still working in fact she worked on christmas day. She had earlier symptoms of forgetfulness but we thought it was due to just getting older. So again I am somewhat relieve with the doctor's findings and hope that her mental states returns back to normal.
Jan 3, 2011 3:52 AM
Katrena Wells :
Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on my article about UTI and confusion in older adults, and I hope your mom is well on her way to a full recovery. Yes, sometimes confusion can be reversed, particularly if a source is found. It sounds like you guys did the right thing by seeking help from a healthcare provider.

You mentioned that you thought her confusion was just a part of growing older. I am seeking to educate people that confusion is NOT a normal change of aging, but many people think that confusion and age go hand-in-hand. Sudden confusion in seniors often has a source, and I would encourage people to read my other article about common causes of confusion. If someone is admitted to the hospital with a UTI, the elder can still be confused due to other reasons, such as being in an unfamiliar atmosphere, altered blood sugar levels, low levels of certain vitamins, etc. It often takes a while for a senior to fully regain memory and some deficits may continue.
Jan 3, 2011 3:30 PM
Katrena Wells :
Your concerns regarding care for someone who has experienced confusion is unfortunately fairly common. Some people may qualify for rehab care in a long-term care facility in which they may receive physical therapy that will help them to recover to their fullest potential. This is often with the thought that they will return home after the therapy.

If someone is experiencing confusion, it can be quite helpful to check for a variety of other potential causes of memory loss to see if other therapies are needed. There are risks to having someone admitted to a nursing home or long-term care facility, such as the potential of being exposed to additional germs that can cause infection and being in unfamiliar surroundings, which can further add to confusion. Some people find that home health care is an option. Some seniors have a difficult time having someone else in their home, particularly if they are confused, so it is helpful to discuss all possibilities and to select the best option for a loved one given his or her individual needs. These are just a few options - others may be available while the ones I mentioned may not be a possibility either.

I hope you will find a good solution and that your mom recovers well. I feel for you - many people have difficulties finding help for a senior who is confused.
Jan 5, 2011 2:54 AM
Guest :
I found your article extremely helpful. Just returned from the hospital after visiting my 76 year old mother who has kidney stones and a UTI. Could not believe how confused and strange she was acting over the last few days and after reporting this to the nursing staff was advised that UTIs can cause this in the elderly. Was very sceptical about this and came home and found your article which has now made me feel some relief. Hope now that she recovers from the confusion and hallucinations.
Jan 6, 2011 12:06 PM
Guest :
Very good article,my Nan is 79 and she went into hospital 4 months ago feeling very unwell,within a day of being there she was very confused she was seeing things and most of things she said were horrible,she felt like we and the doctors were trying to kill her,it was very distressing for us to watch as this wasnt my Nan.They diagnosed her with a UTI and she had Phenomia.Once she recovered she was back to herself .But sadly 2 days ago she was re-admitted to hospital as she had a gastic flu,but today she has gone back to exactly the same way ,she is very confused ,she thinks my Grandad is sitting next to her and is even talking to him,he isnt there as he is at home.She gets cross with us and she also tells me that Patsy Palmer has been to see her ( for those who dont know she is an actress out of Eastenders) .Its very sad to see a loved one like this but i am hoping my Nan will be back to herself very soon and now i understand its just a IUT that is causing the confusion i feel a little bit more relaxed.
Jan 8, 2011 11:14 AM
Katrena Wells :
Thanks for taking the time to comment on my article. Infections in the elderly, even a UTI, and become quite serious and can lead to quite a number of unexpected complications like confusion. Although not as common, even younger people can experience confusion with an infection like a UTI. Thankfully, if your mother's infection has been identified and she is receiving treatment, this will go a long way towards treating an underlying cause of confusion.

People can also experience confusion from medications, a change in environment, and quite a few other factors, and I encourage all readers to take a look at my additional articles about confusion, particularly if it persists. I'm also working on a series of articles designed to be a resource for caregivers that will provide practical tips for caring for someone at home.

I hope your mom's confusion and hallucinations quickly resolve and that she enjoys a full recovery.
Jan 8, 2011 11:31 AM
Katrena Wells :
Your description of what has happened with your Nan is quite common. You mentioned that she had pneumonia with the first UTI. It is definitely possible for someone to have multiple infections, so it is important for an elder to be assessed by a healthcare professional as you have described for your Nan because treatment for one infection might not cover another one, and there are quite a few resistant infections out there that require specific treatment.

I have written articles like "Infections in Seniors," "Pneumonia Shot – What Seniors Should Know," "MRSA in Nursing Homes" etc. in case anyone is interested in learning more about those topics. I cannot post links in the comment section, but feel free to search for those topics in a search engine like Google with my name following it or feel free to visit my profile and browse through my blog (where I'm trying to collect series of articles into one place) and where you can find a complete listing of my articles.

Thanks for taking the time to also mention that she did recover from the confusion the first time around. I think many who may be reading this article may wonder if the confusion will be permanent, and it is nice to hear a real life example from a reader such as yours.

I hope that this infection will resolve as well and appreciate the feedback.
Jan 8, 2011 12:46 PM
Guest :
It is very informative however my mother has had approximately three to four uti infections. These infections can last from two to three weeks depending on the stregnth of the antibiotics prescribed by the doctors. My stepfather has tried to keep her as comfortable as possibe and he continues to do so, but I think that he is having some trouble now because the infections along with the last mini stroke is now becoming a mystery as she now is feelin a bit confused or rather more than usual and cannot verbalize as the uti's become more frequent. Is this normal?
Bobbie Storm
Jan 8, 2011 11:13 PM
Katrena Wells :
It sounds like your mother has multiple issues going on at the same time, which can be very difficult to sort out. A TIA, or mini stroke, places a very different issue in with things and can be a risk factor for a major stroke, so it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of a stroke and act quickly. Recurrent and chronic UTIs can further complicate matters. Collaborating with a healthcare professional and making careful observations might be very helpful to you. For example, you might wish to look to see if there are times when your mothers confusion is worse than at other times to see if there might be a pattern. I hope that things improve for her. I'm sure this is a difficult time for her and your family.
Jan 9, 2011 9:34 PM
Guest :
Thanks for this article. My mother-in-law has been diagnosed with a UTI and yesterday when we talked to her she was having a hard time finding the right words and also she has been confused. She lives in an assisted living home and I am wondering if she is not being cleaned properly after using the bathroom and this is what is causing her to get the UTI? She cannot go to the bathroom without help. Should we check this out and insist on better personal care for her?
Jan 9, 2011 10:19 PM
Katrena Wells :
I'm sorry to hear about your mother-in-law's infection. I cannot give medical advice, but you may wish to talk with her healthcare provider regarding the most likely cause of the infection, but often a cause is difficult, if not impossible, to determine. Even people with great hygiene can get a UTI, particularly women due to our anatomy. It might be helpful to collaborate with the staff at the assisted living facility to see if any changes need to be made upon her return. If you have concerns regarding her care, you may wish to visit frequently at different times of the day to get a feel for how the staff is providing care. This can give you an opportunity to provide added companionship to your mother-in-law and help your family to come up with a suitable action plan to hopefully prevent future infections.
Jan 23, 2011 2:16 PM
Guest :
My 91 year old Grandfather was admitted to hospital after a fall, it transpired that he had a severe urine infection which subsequently led to renal failure and a chest infection - the hospital now tell us that he is infection free. On admittance to hospital he was able to lift a cup & drink for himself,however, 6 weeks on he now seems to be in a permanent state of confusion, he doesn't always know/recognise family members, mumbles, talks about past events and is unable to feed/drink for himself. He is on a Saline drip and catheter. Do you think that his mental state will be permanent?
Jan 25, 2011 6:59 AM
Guest :
Thank you for the article, it was very helpful. My 84 year old father is presently in hospital with a UTI. He has presented a fever, loss of mobility, enlarged prostrate and some temporary confusion. Over the holidays he got up and couldn't hold up his own weight and collapsed to the floor. Paramedics took him directly to the hospital with a irregular heart beat, he has been in the hospital ever since. Antibiotics and a prostrate scrapping has not successfully allowed him to urinate and we as the family are worried that he may not regain his mobility. Any reference to other articles that may give us a clue as to what we might suggest to doctors as the next step would be very much appreciated. Patricia- Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Jan 25, 2011 9:41 AM
Katrena Wells :
I'm sorry to hear about your grandfather's state of health. A UTI can cause confusion, but many other factors can. If your grandfather was not confused before he became ill, there is the possibility of his regular mental status returning; however, so many factors can cause confusion in the elderly, and that makes it quite difficult to treat in some people. For example, if they started him on new medication, some medications can cause confusion. Being in the hospital can also cause confusion. Sleep disturbance, dehydration, and dietary deficiencies can also play a role in confusion. I hope your grandfather's condition improves.
Jan 25, 2011 10:09 AM
Katrena Wells :
I'm sorry to hear about your father's decline in health. Mobility is something that an older person can lose very quickly, and it can take quite a bit of time to rehabilitate and build up strength again. I have written an article entitled "Enlarged Prostate (BPH) May Cause a Variety of Urinary Symptoms" that you might wish to read.

I noticed you mentioned temporary confusion. I'm hoping that perhaps his mental awareness is back to normal now. I hope that your family and the healthcare team will be able to come up with an effective plan for helping him to maintain and regain skills and abilities.
Jan 26, 2011 5:45 PM
Guest :
Thank you for writing the article. It is very informative. My mother-in-law was in the hospital for over a month. During that time, she developed VRE. It was treated for a few days and then she left the hospital and went to a rehab center to regain strength. Antibiotics were not continued. 2 days later, out of nowhere, she became confused. Once a UTI (no longer VRE) was identified, antibiotics were started. After 2 rounds, they changed the antibiotic. She has been on that one for a week and is still not getting better. My concern is that she has been confused for 2 months now. Since she was quickly able to walk again, she no longer qualified for rehab and is now in a nursing home. It is tearing me up. If this confusion is from a UTI, is it reversible after this long?
Jan 30, 2011 4:35 PM
Katrena Wells :
It sounds like your mother-in-law has had a time of it. VRE, in case others who are reading these comments are unfamiliar with this term, is a type of resistant infection that is similar to MRSA. If your mother-in-law is still on antibiotics, it sounds like they are having a hard time getting the UTI to clear up. If the UTI is the cause of the confusion, there is the possibility that the confusion will clear once the infection is cleared. Other causes of the confusion are also possible, so it is important to continue to work together with the healthcare team during this difficult time. I hope things go well for her in the future.
Feb 11, 2011 4:23 AM
Guest :
If I had come across this article a week ago, I would have thought it was the craziest thing I'd ever read. However, the change in my mother's mental state in the last three or four days has gone from completely lucid to sometimes severe confusion. I was shocked earlier today when one of the doctors suggested that her condition might be caused by a UTI. I'm waiting for them to start her on antibiotics and am praying that clearing up the infection will eliminate these terrifying symptoms.
Thank you for your informative and reassuring article.
Feb 11, 2011 9:32 AM
Katrena Wells :
You are not alone - very few people who do not work in healthcare or have not had personal experience to fall back on realize that a UTI can have such a devastating effect on someone's mental status.

I hope your mother's infection clears up and that she experiences a full recovery.
Mar 23, 2011 9:43 AM
Guest :
Yesterday my Mother-In-Law was taking to the hospital because she was very confused and had trouble eating. Everyone thought she might have had a stroke until the doctor said she had a UTI. I told my husband that he must be wrong until I searched the web today and found this article. Guess I learned something new today!!!!
Thanks
Dawn
Mar 24, 2011 11:47 AM
Katrena Wells :
Dawn,

I'm glad you found the information in this article to be helpful to you. A UTI can often be confused with a stroke. I'm glad you guys sought medical care for your mother-in-law and hope she has a full recovery!
Mar 31, 2011 7:10 AM
Guest :
Hi Katrena
I previously wrote here that my elderly mother was presenting as confused and that hospital staff and doctors had stated this was due to a UTI. After being told this and then reading several articles confirming that this could occur I felt relieved, however treatment for the UTI proved useless and she continued to deteriorate until she collapsed at home. It was only then that further tests were conducted and it was finally found that she had a brain tumor and it was in fact the tumor that was causing the confusion and loss of memory. She has had surgery but her prognosis is not good. Looking back I wish now that I had not taken their word for the UTI causing the confusion and loss of memory.
Apr 1, 2011 8:55 AM
Katrena Wells :
Guest,

Thanks for coming back to this article to share your experience. I'm sure this must be a very difficult time for you and your family. Confusion that is directly related to a UTI often does clear up as the infection clears; however, there are many other factors that can also cause confusion. I hope that the treatment for your mother's brain tumor will be more successful than expected. You are certainly in my thoughts and prayers.
Apr 4, 2011 4:08 PM
Guest :
I wish I had known about this sooner. My mother, who was 86, died on 3/22/11 from UTI. She was extremely confused. We all assumed it was dementia.
Apr 5, 2011 11:19 AM
Katrena Wells :
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You are not alone. Many people assume that an older person who becomes confused must be suffering from dementia such as Alzheimer's or perhaps they think that confusion is simply an expected part of growing older. Perhaps your comment will be read by someone and perhaps that someone will be prompted to seek healthcare for a loved one as a result.

Thank you for sharing your story and you are certainly in my prayers today.
Jun 15, 2011 2:22 PM
Guest :
My 82 year old Mother is in Nursing Home care, however, the UTI can appear without cause. She appears to have some dementia, but the UTI creates a full blown situation. Antibiotics normally nip it in the bud in less than 48 hours. The effects of the last UTI, though, remained. There is no sign of infection, but she is still experiencing the same delusional thoughts, hallucinations and confusion. Is there something within the infection that can linger in their brain to cause this to happen???? Thanks for this article. Karen
Jun 15, 2011 7:26 PM
Katrena Wells :
Karen,

I appreciate that you are taking the time to look at possibilities for treatment for your mother. I'm sure this is a very difficult situation. Your mother's history of UTIs with confusion clearing up seems to confirm much of what my article is about. I cannot give medical advice, but I will share a few thoughts.

If the infection clears and the confusion remains, there may be other factors causing the confusion, and it is wise to collaborate with your mom's healthcare provider to check any of them that might be possible in the given circumstance, which may include issues such as other infections, side effects of medications, TIA (mini-stroke), low vitamin B-12 levels or other electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, change in the environment, etc. I have a link in the above article for common causes of confusion that gives more detailed information that you might find helpful.

Typically, if the confusion is related to the UTI, the confusion will tend to clear as the infection clears, but there can be exceptions and often with seniors, there can easily be other contributing factors. I hope your mother's confusion will clear up soon and that you guys are able to find any other factors causing the confusion if applicable.
Jul 16, 2011 8:33 PM
Guest :
Hi thank you for this article, about a week ago my 72 yr old grandmother was starting to act really odd, and seeing things etc.. Now mind you she is as sharp as a tac and always on alert and focused, we took her in and turns out she has a severe UTI and now she is so bad, she can't speak has to be spoon fed thinks we are all out to hurt her, the best way to describe it is she reminds me of Terry Shrivo, it's so sad o see her like this because I was just out shopping and had lunch with her last a week n half ago, the dr.s say she will get better, we all just hope and pray that will be soon because it's heartbreaking! Once the infection is out if her bloodstream she will improve! I'm just happy to see it is common and in time she will be back to herself!
Jul 17, 2011 6:32 AM
Katrena Wells :
A UTI can cause a dramatic and sudden change in an older adult in particular. I'm glad your family took her in to see the doctor and hope that she makes a full recovery.
Jul 18, 2011 3:34 AM
Guest :
This article along with all the comments and your feedback has been extremly helpful. It is the only website that I have found on the net, that goes into the subject of UTI in such detail. The advice and encouragement given to worried relations is very reassuring. Thank you for taking the trouble to replying to each of the comments - it is such a comfort.
My husband who has had a previous stroke(over 20 years ago), was admitted to hospital, 2 days ago, with confusion, high temperature,and loss of speech. After a brain scan, which didn't indicate a bleed, I have been told that he has an infection(almost certainly a UTI). He is on antibiotics, as yet he is still confused and is not able to say more that 'I don't know' and 'yes'. He hardly seems to recognise me. I just hope that in a few days the antibiotics will have kicked in and he will be back to how he was. He already has limited mobility and a some speech difficulty, but it's the confusion that is so upsetting.
Jul 18, 2011 4:04 AM
Katrena Wells :
I appreciate your detailed and very nice response to my article about how a seemingly innocent infection can cause someone to become very confused. It sounds like your husband's doctors are on the right track for ruling out a stroke first since he has a history of stroke. I certainly hope the antibiotics will clear up the infection and confusion. It can be quite hard to see a loved one going through a time of confusion.

I am impressed that so many people are looking to help a family member or friend loved and trying to educate themselves in order to ensure that the loved one is receiving the best possible care.

I hope that your husband has a full and speedy recovery.
Jul 18, 2011 8:37 AM
Guest :
This article along with all the comments and your feedback has been extremly helpful. It is the only website that I have found on the net, that goes into the subject of UTI in such detail. The advice and encouragement given to worried relations is very reassuring. Thank you for taking the trouble to replying to each of the comments - it is such a comfort.
My husband who has had a previous stroke(over 20 years ago), was admitted to hospital, 2 days ago, with confusion, high temperature,and loss of speech. After a brain scan, which didn't indicate a bleed, I have been told that he has an infection(almost certainly a UTI). He is on antibiotics, as yet he is still confused and is not able to say more that 'I don't know' and 'yes'. He hardly seems to recognise me. I just hope that in a few days the antibiotics will have kicked in and he will be back to how he was. He already has limited mobility and a some speech difficulty, but it's the confusion that is so upsetting.
Jul 21, 2011 4:06 AM
Guest :
Further to my previous message (July 18 2011), Thank you very much for your response. I thought I would add that after 48 hours on antibiotic, my husband's confusion started to clear and he began to improve and in now fully aware. Unfortunately I have now been told that there is in fact a very small new area showning up on the brain scan which accounts for the difficult he had with his speech. Luckily that is now almost back to how it was before, although he is still in hospital where he can receive physiotherapy and speech therapy. Hopefully he will soon be back to how he was. UTI's certainly do cause confusion, but with treatment things can clear up after a few days.
Jul 21, 2011 4:15 AM
Katrena Wells :
Thanks so much for touching base again and posting your message of good news. I'm glad to hear of the improvement and I hope the therapy will help the speech issues as well. I also wrote an article entitled How to Speak With Someone Who Cannot Speak that includes a simple, printable communication board at the bottom as one of the pictures.
Sep 29, 2011 8:08 AM
Guest :
Thank you for this article and for all the guest comments. My mother has been on a mental decline for a month now and in and out of the hospital with one UTI after the other. She now wets the bed and herself. On top of that she has diabetes, stopped taking her medications and doesn't drink anything. When she suddenly became confused and delirum set in we didn't understand. The hospital and then the rehabilitation facility kept saying all her tests came back negative except she had a UTI. After reading this, I finally have answers to my questions and now know the proper questions to be more direct with the doctors and nurses. Thanks again.
Sep 29, 2011 9:37 AM
Katrena Wells :
I'm so glad you found my article about UTI and confusion to be helpful and I'm so sorry to hear about your mom's health. If she has stopped drinking, some of the confusion may also be related to dehydration and I've written an article about dehydration and confusion in seniors as well. It is amazing how some of the seemingly small changes can result in such huge changes in a person's life. Throw diabetes into the mix, and this can get even more complicated because confusion can be a symptom of abnormal blood sugar levels. I'm glad you are seeking medical attention and hope they are able to help your mother.
Nov 10, 2011 7:31 AM
Guest :
Katrena-I can not believe more people are not aware of this condidtion including ME!! My mother is 81 and has lived with me for the past 5 years. On Oct. 30th I called 911 to come and get her because for about a week she had become sooo weak she could not stand and fell twice. She does have dementia from a stroke in 2003 but that week she was really confused. Well was in hospital for 3 days with UTI and dehydration. Now she is in rehab center. She is completely immobile. Can't stand, walk, feed herself, it is horrible and I am still in shock! Will she ever recuperate any at all. Today is November 10th which 12 days from being admitted to hospital and she has not improved at all! Thank you for your article!
Nov 11, 2011 12:24 PM
Katrena Wells :
First, let me say that I'm so sorry that your mom has been sick. You are to be commended for being a caregiver for five years - that requires a lot of sacrifice and is a job that is often under-appreciated. Seeking help when you did may have saved your mom's life.

Any time someone becomes confused, it may be related to several different variables. You mentioned quite a few just in your comment: a UTI, dehydration, change in environment, and a history of a stroke.

Unfortunately, I cannot diagnose or give medical advice, but those would be excellent questions for your mom's healthcare provider. She may need more testing once they believe the infection is cleared. Sometimes a UTI does not clear with the first or even second antibiotic. It will be very helpful for the doctor to know how her behavior was previously compared to now because changes in mental status and behavior may not be obvious to someone who is providing care.
Jan 21, 2012 3:26 PM
Guest :
My mother (74) was admitted to hospital by my sister thinking she had a stroke. That was 3 days ago. They now discovered she has a UTI. Treating it with antibiotics 24 hours ago. She has hallucinations and dementia. Will these symptoms clear up? How long will it take before we should be concerned of something else?
Jan 24, 2012 12:49 PM
Katrena Wells :
Thanks for reading my article and taking the time to comment. It sounds like your family did the right thing in seeking medical care for your mother, and yes, the symptoms of a UTI might mimic a stroke or several other conditions when confusion is involved.

I hope that your mother is beginning to relief from the dementia and hallucinations. Unfortunately, I cannot give medical advice, but those are excellent questions for her healthcare provider. As a UTI clears, I have seen many people return to their normal mental state, but other factors can complicate matters in some patients.
Feb 4, 2012 10:17 PM
Guest :
My grandmother has recently been placed in a nurseing facility to complete rehab after a whipple procedure and some complications during surgery.She has had several UTI's and problems with her chemistry being off,among other things.She is 74 and for her age always been of very sound mind.During her first UTI she became very confused,agitated,and saw things that werent there.I was assured this would go away after the antibiotics starting working and it never fully did.She was never concidered septic so I'm confused as to why the symptoms have stayed.They have ruled out other infections.Could it have caused permanent damage?
Feb 7, 2012 9:23 AM
Guest :
Thank you so much for this article my grandmother stared getting confused last few days luckily we are best friends with her doctor so he came to the house and we got her urine sample and blood drawn. She does have a UTi i pray this is the cause and he heals fast .
Feb 22, 2012 5:58 AM
Katrena Wells :
Unfortunately, some people do not fully recover from sudden confusion, but a variety of factors are usually involved in these cases. Her healthcare provided may be able to offer more insight. If chemistry labs are off, other things can occur. For example, the person might experience a seizure if sodium drops rapidly, and this can lead to additional problems. I hope that your mom continues to recover.
Feb 22, 2012 6:00 AM
Katrena Wells :
It can be helpful to at least have a source so that you can begin to focus efforts to help someone who suddenly becomes confused. I hope things turn out well for her and your family and thanks so much for reading my article.
Mar 6, 2012 3:37 AM
Guest :
My grandmother was recently admitted to hospital with what I believe to be delirium. She repeatedly telephoned the police convinced that people were trying to burgle her house. Social Services became involved and it later transpired that she was dehydrated and had a urine infection.
She has been in hospital for around a month whilst she recovers from the infection. Initially her mental state was really bad but has been improving. However, it has come to light that she is still wandering around and hallucinating. This would appear to only happen during the night. She is being transferred to an EMI Unit which I believe is for people with dementia.
What do you think her chances of recovery would be like? She had a stroke many years ago and walks with the assistance of a frame. She lives in her own house with carers coming in four time a day. It is hard to judge if the hospital are doing enough as we do no live nearby. I fear that being out of her usual surroundings is confusing her.
Mar 7, 2012 3:13 AM
Katrena Wells :
I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother. I'm glad to hear that she is at least improving. Some people do fully recover, but it sounds like there are many variables in your account that could be contributing to the confusion, such as the change in surroundings, etc. I would encourage you to keep in contact with her healthcare providers, as they are in the best position to answer questions regarding specific cases. I hope that your grandmother does have a full recovery. I'm sure it is difficult living far away.
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