I have had an indwelling catheter for 40 years and have had many many bladder infections over the years that have been treated with antibiotics. I too struggle with E. coli and bacteria that is resistant to many of the common antibiotics. I spoke with an infection control specialist, and he recommended that I only seek out treatment if my symptoms are bad. I’m sure you’re aware that if you have an indwelling catheter, you will always have bacteria that would indicate treatment when compared to a normal person. But our bladder environment is definitely different and having a bacteria count that would normally be considered within the realm of treatment for others, should be something we don’t treat unless we have multiple symptoms. I made the mistake of seeking out treatment earlier than I should have, and my local general practitioner would treat me with antibiotics not understanding the bladder environment of someone with a catheter.

I have finally gone a full year without a UTI. Things that I am doing differently are drinking, drinking and drinking more. I recently got an electric leg bag emptier, so I can drink as much as I want without needing assistance with emptying my urinary bag. I have also increased sanitation around the catheter site by not sharing any cleanser or cleansing cloths that have been used in other areas around my catheter site. Even your own hands can carry tons of bacteria, so nobody’s hands should be near that catheter site without being washed and gloved. I have reduced the risk of the year and in my bladder reflux and back into the kidneys, which could cause them to be infected. I am now receiving Botox injections in my bladder, so it is much less spastic. I also irrigate with saline solution daily, so that any bacteria building up inside the catheter will be loosened and then flushed out with my urine and the saline solution.

Why is this important? Because I have been informed that if I were to become septic with E. coli, or other bacteria that I am antibiotic resistant to, there is a very high chance that there will not be an antibiotic to treat me and the sepsis could be fatal. I finally retired after 34 years of full-time work, and I’ll be damned if I’m going to let a bladder infection occur that could potentially stop me from enjoying my retirement! Please check out more preventative measures. Good luck!