27/10/2026
💙 Signs of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
UTIs are common, particularly in older adults. Knowing what to look out for can help carers and families recognise symptoms early.
🚽 Common signs of a UTI
•Burning, stinging or pain when passing urine.
•Needing to urinate more frequently than usual.
•Sudden urgency to use the toilet.
•Cloudy urine or blood in the urine.
•Pain or discomfort in the lower tummy.
•A raised or unusually low temperature, or feeling shivery.
•New or worsening incontinence.
🧠 Signs to look out for in older people
•Sudden changes in behaviour or alertness.
•New confusion or agitation.
•Increased tiredness or weakness.
•Reduced appetite or generally feeling unwell.
Important: Confusion alone does not mean someone has a UTI. Dehydration, medication, constipation and other illnesses can cause similar symptoms. Strong-smelling or dark urine alone is also not enough to diagnose an infection.
❤️ When to seek help
If an older person develops possible UTI symptoms, contact their GP or NHS 111 promptly, particularly if they are frail or living with dementia.
Sudden confusion, fever with back or side pain, or a rapidly worsening condition needs urgent medical assessment.
Call 999 if someone is severely unwell, difficult to wake or showing signs of sepsis.
These are useful signs for carers to look out for during care calls, particularly when someone cannot easily explain how they're feeling. The NHS also advises that people aged 65 and over with a suspected UTI should seek urgent advice from a GP or NHS 111.
