The main risk of having a catheter is an infection. This can happen when bacteria get into the body through the catheter.
The infection can happen in the:
- urethra
- bladder
- kidneys - this is less common
These types of infections are urinary tract infections (UTIs).
UTIs from catheters
UTIs from using a catheter are common. The risk is very high if your catheter stays in place all the time.
Non-urgent advice: Contact your GP if
you have a catheter and symptoms of a UTI, such as:
- pain in your lower tummy or around your groin
- a high temperature (fever)
- feeling cold and shivery
- confusion
Mild UTIs do not need treatment. But your GP may prescribe antibiotics if you get a kidney or blood infection.
Other risks and side effects of urinary catheters
Other common effects of having a long-term catheter include:
- bladder spasms - cramps caused by the balloon in your bladder
- leakage around the catheter - this can happen from bladder spasms, when you poo or if your catheter is blocked
- a blocked catheter - caused by blood or other debris such as a build-up of minerals in your pee
Your GP can prescribe medicine to reduce bladder spasms and how severe they are.
Emergency action required: Contact your GP or nurse immediately if:
- you think your catheter is blocked
- large solids or blood clots come out of your catheter
Less common risks from a catheter
Less common risks of having a urinary catheter include:
- injury to the tube that carries pee out of the bladder (urethra)
- narrowing of the urethra - scar tissue can build up after repeated catheter use
- injury to the bladder or rectum from inserting the catheter the wrong way
- bladder stones - these usually only develop after years of using a catheter
- bladder cancer - for people who have indwelling catheters for years
