Concerns Over Recurring UTI and Unsettling Symptoms – Seeking Advice
Hello everyone, I'm a 26-year-old male, and I'm feeling quite anxious at the moment. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has encountered a situation similar to mine. ### 🩺 **Background:** - About a month ago, I was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI) that tested positive for *E. coli* and was treated with antibiotics. - After approximately six weeks, I noticed a return of mild symptoms and sought the assistance of a urologist. - The urologist recommended a **CT scan**, which revealed mild inflammation of the bladder. No stones were found, but it also noted a missing portion of the pancreas. A subsequent urine culture was conducted. - The treatment plan included: - **Hexamentin-625** (antibiotic for five days) - **Fosfomycin (Fosfikill)** – administered weekly for two weeks - **Cranfit** (a cranberry extract) - **OptD5 and Vitamin D (D-rise)** - The follow-up culture returned with the same bacteria, and the doctor indicated mild inflammation of the bladder wall. ### 🔄 **Current Situation:** - I completed my course of antibiotics approximately three days ago. - Lately, I've experienced mild pain in my penis, particularly at night and when lying on my side. - This morning, I noticed a significant reddish-brown mucus or clot in my urine, measuring about an inch in length. - Thankfully, I do not have a high fever and can urinate without issues, but the presence of this clot has been alarming. ### ❓ **Concerns and Questions:** - Is it typical to experience these symptoms during the recovery phase? Does this indicate that the infection persists or that the bladder is not healing properly? - Could this symptom signify a more serious underlying condition, such as cancer? - Has anyone experienced something akin to this? - Should I consider going to the emergency room immediately, or would it be okay to wait for my appointment with the urologist tomorrow? - I'm feeling quite distressed after witnessing this clot. I'm very careful about hygiene and have never been sexually active. Given that I tested positive for *E. coli*, I'm anxious to understand if these episodes are a normal part of healing or if there could be a more serious issue at play. Any insights or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated. 🙏
Answers (1)
7/22/2025, 7:50:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a challenging and distressing situation with your recurring urinary symptoms, and I want to acknowledge your worries, particularly about the reddish-brown mucus you noticed. Here’s what you need to know:
Main Points
- Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) can sometimes lead to lingering symptoms as the bladder heals.
- The presence of blood or significant clots in the urine is concerning and should be evaluated promptly.
- You should consider seeking immediate medical attention rather than waiting for your scheduled appointment.
Explanation
UTIs are commonly caused by bacteria like E. coli, and while antibiotics can treat the infection, it can sometimes take time for the bladder to fully heal. Mild inflammation of the bladder can lead to discomfort, and it is possible to experience ongoing symptoms even after treatment.
However, the appearance of reddish-brown mucus or clots in your urine is not typical and may indicate that there's still some irritation or bleeding occurring within your urinary system. While this can sometimes happen during recovery, it's important to rule out more serious conditions.
Next Steps
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Seek medical attention immediately: Given your symptoms, especially the presence of significant reddish-brown clotting, it would be wise to visit the emergency room rather than wait for your urologist appointment. It's better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in urine color or consistency.
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Keep a symptom diary: Document any additional symptoms you experience, such as pain levels, frequency of urination, and color of urine. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider during assessment.
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Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush out your urinary system, which may alleviate some irritation and aid in recovery.
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Monitor for changes: Pay attention to any changes in your symptoms, such as increased pain, fever, or changes in the amount or color of urine, which can help inform your care team about your condition.
Reassurance
It’s understandable to feel anxious given your symptoms, but getting proactive care is the best way to address your concerns. The fact that you could urinate without issues and do not have a fever is a bit reassuring, but the clot warrants further investigation. You are taking the right steps by reaching out for support. Remember, your health is the priority, and seeking help now will provide you with peace of mind and the right care.
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