Persistent UTI Concerns
Hello, I'm a 40-year-old woman, and back in February, I fell seriously ill, prompting a visit to the doctor because I noticed white patches in my throat. They suspected strep throat and prescribed amoxicillin. Unfortunately, a week later, my condition had worsened, and I developed additional symptoms including severe fatigue, chills, and back discomfort. After heading to the emergency room, I was diagnosed with acute cystitis, and they suspected mononucleosis as well. They administered a rocephin injection and started me on cifdinir. Although my symptoms diminished somewhat, they didn't completely disappear. Next, I was prescribed macrobid, which I finished, but just four days later, the back pain returned. I experienced more chills and felt fatigued again, along with a decline in alertness. When I returned to the emergency room, they initially decided to keep me but ultimately sent me home again. This time, they prescribed macrobid DS for five days. Has anyone experienced something similar? I’ve been struggling with a UTI for a month, enduring numerous courses of antibiotics, while both my primary care physician and the emergency room claim that my UTIs are mild, despite me feeling absolutely terrible. Is this typical? What steps can I take moving forward? I'm still dealing with back pain, and I worry about what will happen once I run out of antibiotics. I'm in urgent need of guidance!
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 4:50:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are going through a challenging and frustrating experience with persistent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and related symptoms. The feeling of being unwell despite receiving treatment can be disheartening. Let’s address your situation step by step.
Main Points
- You are experiencing recurrent UTI symptoms despite multiple antibiotic treatments.
- It's essential to identify the underlying causes of your symptoms.
- Focus on symptom management and preventive measures for future UTIs.
Explanation
Recurrent UTIs can occur for various reasons, including anatomical factors, incomplete treatment of the initial infection, or even antibiotic resistance. Your back pain and fatigue may be related to your ongoing infection, or they might be symptoms of another underlying condition. It’s understandable to feel uneasy when your symptoms don’t resolve despite treatment.
Next Steps
-
Hydration: Increase your fluid intake, especially water, to help flush bacteria from your urinary tract. Aim for at least 8-10 cups per day, unless otherwise directed by your physician.
-
Cranberry Products: Consider adding cranberry juice or supplements (with no added sugar) to your routine. They may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall, although they should not replace antibiotics.
-
Pain Management: For your back pain, over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help alleviate discomfort. Follow the dosing instructions on the package.
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed symptom diary. Note when symptoms improve, worsen, and any correlating lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, or sexual activity, as this information can be very helpful for your healthcare provider.
-
Follow-Up Care: Since you've had multiple antibiotic courses, it's essential to discuss your concerns with your primary care doctor about potential further evaluation for chronic UTI issues or referrals to a urologist. This could include tests to check for any anatomical issues or deeper infections that may require different treatment.
-
Consider Probiotics: After finishing antibiotics, some people find probiotics helpful in restoring healthy bacteria in the body, which can sometimes help prevent further infections.
By focusing on these steps, you can manage your current symptoms while preparing for any future discussions with your healthcare provider about persistent UTIs. Remember, it’s essential to advocate for yourself, so don’t hesitate to express your concerns during follow-ups. If symptoms worsen or new ones arise, consider seeking care promptly.
Related Questions
Experiencing a Pinched Nerve Near the Shoulder Blade
At 25 years old, and without any previous health issues or medications, I suddenly find myself dealing with a pinched nerve in my shoulder. The cause is unclear to me. I've encountered pinched nerves before, primarily in my neck, but this experience feels distinctly different. It's only been three days, yet the pain has rendered me nearly incapacitated. Simple tasks like using the bathroom, sleeping, and even showering have become incredibly challenging due to significant pain and restricted movement. After looking into this condition, I’ve learned that recovery may take anywhere from four to six weeks, a timeline I'm not equipped to manage given the intensity of my discomfort. My profession involves physical activity, and my hobbies mirror that requirement. In an effort to find relief, I have tried a variety of approaches: alternating ice and heat, taking over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol and Advil, resting whenever possible, and incorporating stretches recommended in online videos. Unfortunately, nothing seems to alleviate the pain. I’m reaching out for guidance. Would physical therapy be beneficial in my situation? Are there particular stretches known to provide relief for pinched nerves? A friend of mine mentioned that muscle relaxants failed to help her during a similar episode; should I consider trying them nonetheless? Is visiting a doctor necessary at this point? I appreciate any advice you can provide to help me navigate this painful situation.
Is Constipation Possible Without Symptoms?
For me, experiencing a lack of bowel movements for a span of 8 to 10 days on a monthly basis is quite common, and I suspect it is linked to my premenstrual syndrome, as it consistently occurs during the same week every month. However, I find myself questioning whether this situation qualifies as constipation, mainly because I do not exhibit any classic signs. There is no pain, no discomfort, and no bloating; I genuinely feel as though there is no urgent need to relieve myself. I am 24 years old.
Braved the Cold Without Gloves at -20
19-year-old from Toronto here. After being outside in frigid temperatures, I've returned home feeling quite cold. My right hand is experiencing numbness and tingling in the fingertips. What steps should I take? It's been around 7 to 8 hours since I was outdoors.
Managing Early Appendicitis: Antibiotics vs. Surgery
I’m a 21-year-old who recently had a CT scan revealing mild inflammation in my appendix and lymph nodes. My doctor informed me that surgery might not be necessary if the antibiotics effectively alleviate my discomfort by tomorrow. However, I can’t shake my fears about a potential recurrence of the inflammation. The thought of going through a post-surgery recovery terrifies me, so I really want to steer clear of that option. Has anyone opted for antibiotics rather than surgical intervention? What was your experience like?
Severe Abdominal Discomfort
An 18-year-old male, with no history of smoking or current medications, finds himself at home, surrounded by his sleeping family. He stands approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs around 220 pounds. Lately, he has been experiencing persistent discomfort in the lower left side of his abdomen. This sensation has intensified recently, culminating in a bout of vomiting, which was notably different this time, presenting more solid material rather than the usual liquid with some fragments. The level of pain has escalated significantly, leaving him uncertain about seeking medical assistance at this moment. What steps should he take?