Unlocking the pathological pathway in urinary tract infection-induced brain fog: A literature review

Abstract

Brain fog is a common and bothersome symptom caused by urinary tract infections. Along with other symptoms like delirium, memory issues, confusion, and disorientation, this cognitive impairment may include trouble thinking clearly. Sudden confusion or delirium can be brought on by urinary tract infections, especially in elderly or dementia patients. It is hypothesized that urinary tract infections affect hippocampal neurogenesis and other aspects of brain homeostasis, which may be linked to their effects on cognitive function. Moreover, mental anguish and confusion are linked to urinary tract infections, though not all symptoms that resemble urinary tract infections are caused by urinary tract infections. Our search turned up articles about delirium, brain fog, and urinary tract infections in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and other online databases. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause a variety of symptoms, including brain fog, confusion, and delirium. These symptoms can impair cognitive function and require a thorough diagnosis. This review describes the various symptoms that are linked to urinary tract infections, ranging from traditional indications like fever and frequent urination to non-specific symptoms like delirium and confusion. It emphasizes how important it is to diagnose and comprehend non-specific symptoms by including assessment tools such as the Glasgow Coma Scale, DSM-V, and the Brief Confusion Assessment Method. In addition, it discusses the current controversy regarding the management of individuals with asymptomatic bacteriuria or urinary tract infections, emphasizing the difficulties in avoiding and treating urinary tract infections -related mental impairment. Confusion and delirium brought on by urinary tract infections are better understood when underlying causes, such as immunological, genetic, and microbiological factors, are investigated. Evaluating underlying factors such as immunological, genetic, microbiological aspects can lead to a better understanding of the confusion and uncertainty caused by UTI. This knowledge can help healthcare professionals in conditions, in order to improve diagnostic, therapeutic and management strategies for patients experiencing UTI and possibly cognitive impairment.