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Dementia describes a host of symptoms relating to the degeneration of the brain, that worsen progressively over time. Some of the functions to deteriorate relate to memory and cognition. As the disease advances, however, symptoms may become apparent when going to the toilet.
The Alzheimer’s Association confirms this, stating: “It is common for people with dementia to get a urinary tract infection, particularly during the later stages of dementia.”
Pee may alternatively smell of ammonia, according to the Cleveland Clinic, which also suggests there is bacteria swimming inside the urethra kidney of the bladder.
“It is also important to be aware that any infection could speed up the progression of dementia and so all infections should be identified and treated quickly,” explains the Alzheimer’s Society.
Although UTIs are more likely to occur in the advanced stages of dementia, changes in urine odour may occur years before the onset of symptoms. These, however, may not be noticeable to the human nose.
In a study conducted by the Monell Centre, the US Department of Agriculture alongside other collaborating institutions, in 2016, researchers found alterations in urine correlated with changes in the brain.
source: Daily Express
