Catheters

When one has difficulty with their natural bodily function of urination, the use of a catheter may be needed. A catheter is a tube that is inserted into the bladder to drain off the excess liquid. People are encouraged to do this naturally but certain medical conditions can make this difficult, painful or just impossible. They catheter is then placed in to bring comfort to the patient and relief to the bladder.

Catheters are generally used for the short term and are a last resort. There can be complications with extended catheter use. Among these are bladder infection, septicemia, Urethral injury, bladder stones and even bladder cancer is the catheter is used for an extended period of time. Catheters can cause blood in the urine as well.

Catheters come in several different makes. Some are made from silicon, Teflon and latex. Most health care providers recommend starting off with the smallest catheter size possible. This reduces the discomfort that comes with inserting the catheter and also reduces the chances of damage to the urethra. However, this isn’t always possible. Sometimes the urine is full of sediment or blood. It can also be thick and heavy due to infection. In these instances a larger sized catheter is needed.

Caring properly for the catheter is vitally important. To neglect it could cause serious infection. It isn’t recommended to change he catheter unless it becomes clogged and painful. Frequent changing increases the chance of urethral damage. It is recommended that regular cleaning with warm water and soap is a much better method of caring. The catheter also needs to be cleaned after bowel movements. Keeping it clean keeps the risk of infection low and further reduces the chances of damage.

Catheters are a way of emptying the bladder when the patient is unable to do so themselves. They are only used when necessary due to possible side effects. If a catheter is needed it is essential that it is cared for properly. Regular cleaning will keep it in place; reduce the chances of infection and damage.