To prevent possible problems, you must be aware of the urinary tract complications that can occur. These complications, which can cause kidney damage or kidney failure, include:
Infection, such as bladder infection, kidney infection, or blood poisoning. Serious infections can be avoided by scrupulous urinary care and knowing the early signs of infection. Sometimes your doctor will prescribe medication to prevent symptoms from occurring. You need to observe your urine and know the symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection, which include:
* Urine that is cloudy or has a foul odor
* Sediment in the urine
* Chills and fever, and lack of appetite or energy
Calculi, or stones, may occur in the bladder or in the kidney. Bladder stones are easily removed. Kidney stones may require major surgery to remove.
Reflux is the backward flow of urine from the bladder to the kidneys. It can be caused by high pressure in the bladder, by the bladder being too full, or, from the bladder contracting against a sphincter muscle which will not relax. Reflux can also be caused by an infection that damages the valve between the bladder and the ureter. In some people with high SCI injuries, reflux can cause Autonomic Dysreflexia which requires immediate care. Reflux, and high pressure in the bladder, can also cause Hydronephrosis, the collection of urine in the kidneys.
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PoinTIS Copyright © 1998 the Louis Calder Memorial Library of the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, all rights reserved.
