Over the counter UTI meds

[tobee]

My elderly mum has told me she's got cystitis and has asked me to go into chemist to get her the otc uti meds.

Can any one tell me what they might ask please?

I've also started a thread in elderly parents.

They will want to know how old she is. I know she wants OTC medication but if she's under 64 (so hardly elderly) they can prescribe ABs.

How old? You have to be under 60 to get ABs.

Ahh she's 88!

Might have to just ask if they can give her something not antibiotic. She should go to gp really but is barely mobile so reluctant. We'll have to work something out.

Could you get a urine sample from her OP ?
Drop into Gp and ask them to "dip" it ?
They may be able to provide you something specific
Look out for any deterioration, sorry to say this but in the elderly this can escalate quite quickly and present as really nasty , confused , def not themselves

GP phone appointment and urine test is probably your only option. In the meantime, drinking cranberry juice can help it not get worse at least.

That's a good idea @Soditsally

Yes I know about the complications; they are a concern.

Just taking to my sister and apparently mum has a phone appointment but not until the 23rd but the sample is a good idea to get ahead of the situation.

I'll see what Boots have to recommend anyway. I think she's had symptoms for a while now.

Thanks for the replies btw!

Try 111 - I am older, aware I am developing a UTI, rang 111 and was amazed how seriously they took this. I now have an OOH Dr appointment this afternoon.

Cystitis sachets/liquid are available in pharmacies but it's not over the counter.

I'd probably consider 111 if she's had symptoms for a while with her age. Treatment is pretty simple but it's not a good idea to leave things be either. You may even get antibiotics given over the phone.

Ok I'll try that. Seeing her this pm and tomorrow for a hearing aid check appointment which is good.

Hope she feels better soon 💐

UTIs in elderly people can get worse quickly and can cause symptoms that look like dementia. She needs to be seen asap

As above but D-mannose is amazing. Acute dose or regular for prevention. Highly recommend, there are studies to prove it now. I've used for years and just stopped a uti myself (had an antibiotic px just in case but didnt need it). As a long term sufferer this is my go to.

You can get cystitis relief sachets to put in a drink , which would give her some relief from the pain.
But at 88 she probably needs antibiotics sooner rather than later, I would be ringing 111 and see if she can get antibiotics today

Thanks!

Hi after several uti’s in a matter of months and cystoscope , scan etc my Urologist recommended D-Mannose and it’s working great. I had symptoms of uti when I stopped it for a few days but straight on it and 👍🙏 I take it every 2nd day now