Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Spinal Cord Injury
What is a UTI?
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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common health concerns for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). Changes in bladder function after SCI increase the risk of infection and can make UTIs harder to recognize. Learning how UTIs occur, what symptoms to watch for, and how to prevent them is an important part of protecting your bladder and kidney health.
Why Are UTIs More Common After Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury can affect the normal communication between the brain and the bladder. This may lead to neurogenic bladder, where bladder emptying, storage, or sensation does not work as it should.
Factors that increase UTI risk after SCI include:
- Incomplete bladder emptying, allowing bacteria to grow
- Use of intermittent or indwelling catheters
- High bladder pressures or urine backing up toward the kidneys
- Reduced sensation, making early symptoms harder to notice
Because of these changes, bacteria may be present in the urine more often in people with SCI.
Signs and Symptoms of UTIs After SCI
UTI symptoms may look different for people with spinal cord injury. You may not feel typical bladder pain or burning. Instead, signs of a UTI may include:
Urinary Changes
- Cloudy, dark, foul-smelling, or bloody urine
- Increased urine leakage or incontinence
Body Changes
- Fever, chills, or sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feeling generally unwell or more tired than usual
- Increased muscle spasms
Other Warning Signs
- Autonomic dysreflexia (sudden high blood pressure, headache, flushing, sweating) in people with injuries at or above T6
- Abdominal discomfort or increased bladder pressure
A change from your usual routine or how you normally feel can be an important sign of infection.
Bacteria in the Urine vs. a UTI
Many people with SCI have bacteria in their urine without feeling sick. This is called asymptomatic bacteriuria and is not the same as a UTI.
Antibiotics are usually not needed unless bacteria are present and you have symptoms. Treating bacteria when there are no symptoms can lead to antibiotic resistance and make future infections harder to treat.
How UTIs Are Diagnosed
To diagnose a UTI, a healthcare provider may:
- Test your urine for bacteria and white blood cells
- Send a urine culture to identify the bacteria and choose the right antibiotic
- Review your symptoms, bladder routine, hydration, and catheter use
Treatment
When a UTI is confirmed, treatment may include:
- Antibiotics chosen based on urine culture results
- Drinking more fluids to help flush the bladder
- Reviewing and adjusting your bladder management routine
Treatment plans are individualized and should always be guided by a healthcare professional.
Preventing UTIs
Preventing UTIs is a key part of staying healthy after spinal cord injury.
Use Clean Catheter Technique
- Wash or disinfect hands before catheterization
- Clean the area around the urethra
- Use a new, sterile catheter each time
- Keep drainage bags and connectors clean
Empty Your Bladder Regularly
- Follow a consistent bladder-emptying schedule
- Empty your bladder completely each time
- Avoid overfilling by catheterizing as recommended
Stay Hydrated
- Drink enough fluids each day (often 6–8 glasses unless advised otherwise)
- Water is the best choice
- Limit caffeine and artificial sweeteners if they irritate your bladder
Maintain Good Hygiene
- Bathe regularly
- Keep the genital area clean
- Clean carefully during and after bowel routines and after bowel accidents
Why UTIs Matter
If UTIs are untreated or happen frequently, they can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Kidney infections
- Sepsis
- Increased hospital stays
- Long-term kidney damage
- Reduced quality of life
Early recognition and proper management can help prevent these complications.
Key Takeaway
UTIs are common after spinal cord injury, but they may not feel the same as UTIs in people without SCI. Knowing the warning signs, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, and maintaining good bladder care can significantly reduce your risk. If you suspect a UTI or notice changes in your bladder routine, contact your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding diagnosis and treatment.
