The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has sounded the alarm over a potentially ‘life-threatening’ issue that affects millions. The Government body took to social media about urinary tract infections (UTIs), calling for people to keep an eye on those particularly vulnerable, especially the over-65s.
“UTIs are unpleasant for most but for some they can be life-threatening,” it said in an update this week. “Check in on those who might be more at risk of developing UTIs, including those aged 65+. Know the signs.”
UTIs are infections that affect the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, urethra and/or bladder. These can affect anyone but are more common among females, with around half experiencing one at some point in life, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Although they are usually harmless, UTIs can become life-threatening if they progress to sepsis, a serious condition in which typical infection-fighting defences wrongly attack the body.
In extreme scenarios, Dr Lawrence, a retired GP from UK Care Guide, noted that septic shocks can occur, necessitating immediate medical attention. “I’ve seen in severe upper UTIs where the infection spreads to the bloodstream,” he told the Mirror.
“In my experience, underlying conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system can increase the risk of a UTI becoming life-threatening. So, it’s critical for individuals with such conditions to seek medical advice promptly when symptoms arise.”
UTIs are broadly categorised into lower UTIs, affecting the bladder (cystitis) and urethra (urethritis), and upper UTIs, which generally affect the kidneys. The latter often gives rise to more severe symptoms that require medical attention.
Dr Gareth Nye, lecturer of Biomedical Science at the University of Salford, also told the Mirror: “The most common causative bacteria is E coli which is responsible for up to 90 per cent of UTI infections.
“Most UTIs begin with bacteria infecting the urethra which is the tube urine comes through. This normally is due to a result of cross-contamination with bacteria from the anus during trips to the toilet and is the main reason UTIs are common in children learning to wipe independently.
“As females have naturally shorter urethras and it is in closer proximity to likely bacterial sources, they are much more likely to develop UTIs… UTIs can be life-threatening; if they reach the kidneys, the infection can cause permanent kidney damage, which has whole-body effects such as changes to blood pressure and a lower ability to remove toxins from the body.
“UTIs in pregnancy can lead to premature births, which has high risks for both mum and baby.” As a result, both doctors advise vigilance for the common symptoms of UTIs and other signs that point to their increased seriousness.
Frequent urination and discomfort while using the toilet are typical signs you might expect, but others can seem unrelated. This especially includes sudden confusion or memory loss.
“Older people often have UTIs which present with non-standard symptoms,” Dr Nye continued. “Older people which sudden onset confusion or memory problems may be suffering from a UTI, particularly if they already have an underlying brain condition.
“(But in general) the symptoms distinguish how far the infection has spread and which type of UTI you have. Urethritis causes burning sensation during urination or discharge but can often go unnoticed.
“Cystitis is when people often notice the infection as the symptoms include pain when urinating, increased urination frequency, pain in the lower abdomen and cloudy, bad-smelling urine. Some women report feeling a pulling or dragging sensation when urinating.
“If the infection reaches the kidneys, it can be a very serious medical condition, and symptoms include fever, vomiting and pain in the lower back.” Similarly, Dr Cunningham added: “Sometimes, patients also report pelvic pain, especially in cases of cystitis.
Mild UTIs confined to the urethra usually get better without medical treatment, but both experts recommend seeking a GP’s advice in all cases to avoid serious complications. Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water can reduce the risk of infection too, in addition to good personal hygiene and urinating after sexual intercourse.
“Yes, mild cases of UTIs might resolve without treatment, but this is not something I typically recommend relying on,” Dr Lawrence said. “It’s always safer to consult a GP to avoid complications.
“I always recommend seeking medical advice if symptoms persist for more than a couple of days or if you experience severe symptoms like fever and flank pain. Early treatment can prevent the infection from becoming more serious.”
Meanwhile, Dr Nye added: “As soon as symptoms appear it is best to seek medical support, this is why the urine testing sticks can help in forming a diagnosis. However, UTIs can be missed on urine dipstick tests and may require a more advanced sample to confirm, particularly if the level of bacteria are low at the time.
“If you have symptoms make sure you are seeking treatment as soon as possible.”