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What Causes Foul Smelling Urine?
Question: 88 year old male using a catheter and bag for several years now has a strong odor, like really bad urine. says he takes a bath frequently. Possible health issue? Or needs to change the catheter more often? or bathe more diligently?
XXXX YYYY@YYYY
XXXX YYYY@YYYY
Brief Answer:
Options and causes explained, proper catheter care is a must
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern.
Hygiene issues are obviously a concern with this kind of complaint. A human being can easily become used to his own smell, no matter how strong an odor is given out to the people around him.
Catheterization itself can predispose to Urinary tract infection and if proper cleanliness is not maintained then predisposition to other infections eg skin manifestations can also occur.
Regular bath at least once a week with proper catheter care should be done, ideally by a full time assistant if the patient has difficulty in taking care of himself or if there are signs of serious neglect.
A urine R/E , blood counts and metabolic profile should also be done for the patient in consult with his doctor to rule out any serious cause. Bronchiectasis, Lung abscess and certain oral infections can lead to foul smell and should also be looked for in consult with his doctor.
Let me know if you have any query
wishing you best of health
thanks
Dr. M.S. Khalil
Options and causes explained, proper catheter care is a must
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern.
Hygiene issues are obviously a concern with this kind of complaint. A human being can easily become used to his own smell, no matter how strong an odor is given out to the people around him.
Catheterization itself can predispose to Urinary tract infection and if proper cleanliness is not maintained then predisposition to other infections eg skin manifestations can also occur.
Regular bath at least once a week with proper catheter care should be done, ideally by a full time assistant if the patient has difficulty in taking care of himself or if there are signs of serious neglect.
A urine R/E , blood counts and metabolic profile should also be done for the patient in consult with his doctor to rule out any serious cause. Bronchiectasis, Lung abscess and certain oral infections can lead to foul smell and should also be looked for in consult with his doctor.
Let me know if you have any query
wishing you best of health
thanks
Dr. M.S. Khalil
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems and comprehensive renal care, talk to a Nephrologist. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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