When UTI Symptoms Persist Despite Negative Lab Results
Age: 41 Gender: Female Ethnicity: Caucasian Duration of symptoms: Approximately 3 weeks Location: United Kingdom Current medications: Citalopram At the end of February, I noticed my urine had taken on a reddish hue, despite consuming two liters of water daily, which ruled out dehydration. I didn’t have any other noticeable symptoms. My general practitioner referred me to an online pharmacy, where I received a three-day supply of Nitrofurantoin. Initially, my symptoms seemed to improve after this treatment. However, on March 12th, I experienced severe pain and difficulty urinating, prompting my GP to send me to Urgent Care. At the facility, undergoes several tests including a urine dipstick test, blood panels, a bladder ultrasound, and a CT scan. They diagnosed me with a UTI and provided a five-day course of Nitrofurantoin. The CT results indicated the presence of possible fibroids in my uterus, but since I have had regular menstrual cycles without any discomfort, I wasn't concerned about it. After completing the antibiotic treatment, my symptoms returned and the GP finally agreed to see me in-person. Subsequent urine analysis indicated the presence of blood, white blood cells, and protein. I was prescribed two additional days of Nitrofurantoin, as my doctors revealed that the standard treatment duration is typically seven days, bringing into question why I was initially given only five. Furthermore, they arranged for a urine culture with a pathology lab and ordered a CT scan for the possible fibroids, acknowledging the prolonged wait time for that procedure, which might not even be relevant to my current issues. Upon finishing the two-day medication, I continued to experience symptoms. Home testing strips showed elevated blood levels, traces of protein, and some white cells. Despite these ongoing issues, my test results returned normal, indicating no need for further intervention. I plan to revisit my GP, but I’m also seeking additional opinions and insights on this matter.
Answers (1)
3/21/2025, 7:40:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing ongoing urinary symptoms that persist despite treatment and negative lab results, which can be incredibly frustrating and concerning. Let’s break down the key points and focus on next steps.
Summary of Your Situation:
You have had persistent UTI-like symptoms for about three weeks, received treatment with Nitrofurantoin, and had various tests indicating issues, such as blood and protein in your urine. You’re looking for additional insights while planning to consult your GP again.
Explanation:
Persistent symptoms after antibiotic treatment could indicate several things:
- Recurrent or resistant infection: Sometimes, bacteria can be resistant to antibiotics, or the infection may not have fully resolved.
- Non-infectious causes: Conditions like interstitial cystitis or bladder inflammation could mimic UTI symptoms but may not show infection on urine tests.
- Other medical issues: Potentially, the fibroids noted during imaging might contribute indirectly to your symptoms, even if you feel they aren't related.
Next Steps:
-
Document and Track Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and associated factors (like diet, hydration, activity). This can provide useful information for your GP.
-
Follow-Up with Your GP:
- Request a thorough review of your past treatments, including the results of your urine culture when available. Discuss the possibility of a resistant infection or non-infectious causes and the next steps if your symptoms continue (e.g., longer courses of antibiotics, referral to a urologist).
-
Home Care Measures:
- Stay well-hydrated and consider trying cranberry supplements (or cranberry juice) as some evidence suggests they can help with urinary tract health, though they should not be a substitute for medical treatment.
- Use a heating pad on your lower abdomen to help relieve discomfort.
-
Consider Other Specialists:
- If symptoms persist without clear improvement, you might consider a urologist for further evaluation. They can offer specialized tests or treatments for conditions beyond typical UTI management.
-
Stay Informed and Advocate for Yourself:
- Bring up any concerns you have about the adequacy of previous treatments and express your need for a resolution. Ask about any additional tests or specialist referrals if your symptoms do not improve.
It’s completely understandable to seek more clarity and assistance, and you are taking the right steps in advocating for your health. Keep tracking your symptoms carefully, and don’t hesitate to push for the care you deserve. Please let me know if you need more information or support.
Related Questions
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?
Concerns Over My Partner's Persistent Pain and Resistance to Seek Medical Help
I’m facing a worrying situation with my partner, a 40-year-old man who stands 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 19 stone. Here's a brief overview of his medical background: Twenty years ago, he experienced two instances of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his left shoulder. Following the second incident, doctors discovered an abnormal growth of a rib that was pressing against a vein, which was the cause of those DVTs. More recently, he dealt with a blood clot in his calf last year. Fortunately, that was successfully treated, and he returned to his normal health. Although he was advised to continue taking apixaban for the long term, he has, unfortunately, chosen not to follow through with this guidance. He also has a history of elevated blood pressure. For the past couple of days, he has been experiencing two concerning symptoms that emerged simultaneously: a persistent cough with no accompanying cold or flu signs, and a severe pain located on the right side of his torso. He describes this discomfort as being mostly in his stomach yet extending slightly to his back. I would pinpoint the troubled area as the lower part of his ribs along the side of his body. It's unusual for him to express discomfort or complain about his health, so his recent grievances signal to me that the pain is likely quite significant. Despite my repeated suggestions for him to visit a doctor, he insists that he may have simply pulled a muscle. To manage the pain, he's been applying an ibuprofen cream (voltarol) and taking naproxen, but neither seems to provide relief. What might be the underlying issue here? I hope that some medical professionals who see this post can offer their insights, which might persuade him to consider making a doctor’s appointment. I’m open to providing any additional information you might require for a more informed perspective. Thank you for your help!
Struggling with Bleeding and Pain Since Christmas
I'm a 27-year-old woman from the UK, and I've reached a point of exasperation. I'm reaching out because I hope someone can provide insight or guidance on what I should discuss with my doctors. Please excuse any grammar or spelling errors as I have dyslexia. I've been diagnosed with endometriosis and underwent surgery in 2022 for confirmation of that diagnosis. On December 15th, I had my birth control implant removed after nearly two years. During that period, I experienced severe menstrual cramps and PMS. My GP started me on Drospirenone 3mg and Estetrol 14.2mg COCP in October to alleviate these symptoms and suppress my periods, which provided some relief. Prior to this situation, I occasionally dealt with flare-ups that typically lasted a few days or up to a week. To help manage the discomfort, I have been prescribed Duloxetine at a dosage of 90mg. I had an ultrasound earlier this summer, and the results came back normal. Currently, I am awaiting an MRI. Last year, my smear test results were also clear. After the removal of my implant in December, I began bleeding on Christmas Eve. Initially, I could manage with just a panty liner, but over the next few weeks, the bleeding intensified, requiring the use of pads due to increased blood flow and blood clots. Given my history with endometriosis, pain isn't unfamiliar to me; my average pain level is around a 4, but it has recently escalated to 7 or 8. In the past couple of weeks, the discomfort has worsened. My job demands physical activity, and bending over now causes pain in my back and legs. Additionally, I experience discomfort when my bladder fills, and urination is painful, although it doesn't feel like a urinary tract infection. I've also been waking up at night to use the restroom. My doctor performed a urine dip test that showed no signs of infection, though there was blood in my urine, which he indicated was to be expected. Recently, my GP prescribed Tranexamic acid 500mg and Mefenamic acid 500mg, which helped with the blood clots, but I'm still experiencing bleeding and significant pain. I've been diligent about taking my medication, treating it like a strict regimen. I returned to the GP, who referred me for another ultrasound and advised me to go to A&E if the pain worsens. I've been resting as much as possible while still trying to maintain some level of activity, but it hasn't provided much relief. Any assistance or advice would be immensely appreciated! Thank you!