Experiencing Severe Back Pain Linked to UTI? Struggling to Move
I’m a 19-year-old dealing with multiple conditions, including bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, bulimia, and anxiety. Currently, I’m on a regimen that includes Lamictal at 300 mg, Citalopram at 20 mg, Seroquel at 50 mg, and Doxycycline at 100 mg. Today, I was given a new prescription for Nitrofurantoin 100 mg and Methocarbamol 750 mg. Getting out of bed is a significant challenge for me; I experience intense pain when I attempt to reach for anything, and I find it uncomfortable to even sit on the toilet. Sadly, the muscle relaxant has had no effect on my discomfort. My doctor has indicated that my symptoms are linked to a urinary tract infection (UTI), a condition I’ve been treating for over six weeks now, having completed two courses of Nitrofurantoin. An X-ray returned normal results. Unfortunately, my doctor didn’t provide much reassurance, which has led me to seek advice here. I have a referral for an MRI scheduled for tomorrow.
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 12:00:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear that you're dealing with such severe pain and discomfort, especially while managing multiple health conditions. It's understandable to feel anxious when your symptoms aren't improving, and I'm here to provide some guidance based on your situation.
Main Points:
- Severe back pain associated with a UTI can be distressing, but there are several approaches to help manage your symptoms.
- Since muscle relaxants haven't helped yet, consider alternative methods for pain relief and comfort while awaiting your MRI results.
Explanation:
Back pain linked to a UTI may occur due to the infection affecting the kidneys or surrounding areas, and it's great that you have already consulted with your doctor and are getting an MRI for further evaluation. Your pain could also be amplified by tension and stress related to your existing mental health conditions, which can affect how we experience physical pain.
Next Steps:
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Pain Management:
- Heat Therapy: Apply a warm compress or heating pad to your lower back. This can help soothe muscle tension and reduce pain.
- Over-the-counter Pain Relief: If not contraindicated with your other medications, consider non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (if safe for you) to alleviate pain.
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Rest and Position Modification:
- Ensure that you’re resting in a comfortable position. Support your back with cushions while lying down and try to maintain a neutral spine.
- When sitting (e.g., on the toilet), use a stool or cushion to reduce strain on your back.
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Hydration and Nutrition:
- Staying hydrated can help flush out the bacteria from your urinary tract. Drinking more fluids (preferably water) can support your recovery from the UTI.
- Ensure that you're eating balanced meals to support your overall health and well-being, especially while managing bulimia and other conditions.
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Follow-up on Symptoms:
- Keep a close eye on your pain levels and any other new symptoms you might experience. If back pain worsens or you start experiencing fever, chills, or noticeable changes in urination, consider reaching out for additional medical advice sooner.
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Support System:
- If you don’t already have one, consider seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist who can help navigate both your physical and mental health challenges during this time.
It's clear you're doing your best to manage a complex situation, and it's important to actively engage in your health. If your pain doesn't improve or you have concerns after your MRI, ensure you communicate those to your healthcare provider. You're not alone in this, and there are paths to relief. Let me know if you need more information or specific guidance!
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