Any suggestions of how to keep catheters from getting plugged up?

Hi Tom (@sandra2018), catheter encrustation and blockage can be alarming, and if not addressed, it can be painful. some people never experience blockages and for others regular blockages can take over a person’s life. I'm tagging fellow members @daughterwwiivet @perrychristopher @cent66 @jakedduck1 @paul55 @jenatsky @whytee @huskerhowy, who may have some suggestions for you.

You might also find this related discussion helpful:
- How often does a Foley catheter need to be changed? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/foley-catheter-change-frequency/

Tom, are you staying well hydrated?

Tom, are you able to self-catheter? I found that much easier and less uncomfortable than a foley. I encourage you to look into this.

YES, MY CHILDREN AND NURSES EVERY FEW DAYS. SOMETIMES I FEEL LIKE I'M GOING TO FLOAT OUT OF BED.
THANK YOU
TOM

NO, SINCE A SPINAL CORD INJURY I DON'T HAVE GOOD USE OF MY HANDS.
THANK YOU
TOM

I’m a retired public health nurse and we ran into this often. You don’t indicate whether a suprapubic or urethral catheter and I’m going presume it’s long term and suprapubic based on your description of your injury and disability. Partially it’s due to your fluid intake type and amount. For this you may need to consult with a nutritionist to ascertain a best formula intake amount and quality based on a chemical analysis of a urine sample ordered by your urologist. You may be over producing sediment as well. If your catheter is irrigated by your support staff every 2-3 hours for the short term this may be a stop gap. Good luck.

@sandra2018
Crystals may be forming from differing PH and gathering together.
In catheterized patients, their bladders don’t fill and therefore don’t wash away the bacteria.
Particles can also break away from an infection colony.
1️⃣ Lots of fluids, (LOTS!) mainly water, if possible.
2️⃣ Changing cath more frequently.
3️⃣ Irrigation of bladder.
4️⃣ Perhaps an antibacterial medication like Mandelamine to help control infections if that's the cause of the plugging up.
5️⃣ Use condom-type cath.
Best of luck,
Jake