Concerns Regarding Rapid Development of Mouth Sores After IV Antibiotic Treatment
I am a 31-year-old female from the United States, standing at 5'1" and weighing 195 lbs. My current medications include doxycycline, propranolol, Abilify, Zoloft, Plaquenil, clonidine, and trazodone. In terms of my medical history, I have been diagnosed with Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), Lupus, and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Recently, I dealt with a severe bout of cellulitis on my chest, which is showing some signs of improvement. However, after spending three days in the hospital receiving IV vancomycin and cefepime, I woke up feeling quite unwell this morning. I noticed the emergence of sores on my upper lip that seem to extend down my throat, making it painful to eat. Is this a typical side effect? Should I be worried about a possible underlying issue? I have undergone intravenous antibiotic treatments multiple times for various infections without experiencing this before. I am concerned that this might indicate a reaction that necessitates further medical intervention. My current temperature is 99.3°F and appears to be rising. Any guidance or insights would be greatly appreciated. While I do have a doctor's appointment scheduled soon, I'm interested in knowing whether anyone else has encountered a similar situation.
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 2:20:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
The appearance of mouth sores after IV antibiotic treatment, especially following a serious condition like cellulitis, can be concerning but may occur for a few reasons. It's important to consider potential causes such as oral thrush (a fungal infection), a reaction to the antibiotics, or even a viral infection. Given your existing health conditions and the recent antibiotic treatment, it's good that you're being proactive.
Explanation:
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Oral Sores: These can be caused by several factors including:
- Oral Thrush: Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria and yeast in your mouth, leading to an overgrowth of yeast.
- Herpes Simplex Virus: If you have a history of cold sores, the stress of illness or antibiotics can trigger an outbreak.
- Reactions to Antibiotics: Some individuals may develop sores as a reaction to certain medications, although this is less common.
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Fever: A mild fever (like your 99.3°F), especially after receiving IV antibiotics, can be a normal response, but it can also indicate that your body is fighting an infection or reacting to the treatment.
Next Steps:
- Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, as soreness can make eating and drinking uncomfortable but is crucial for healing.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) can help manage discomfort.
- Gentle Oral Care: Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day to soothe the sores.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your temperature and symptoms. If your fever rises above 100.4°F or if the sores worsen, seek medical attention sooner.
- Temporary Dietary Adjustments: Opt for soft, bland foods that are easier to eat (e.g., yogurt, applesauce, smoothies) to reduce pain while eating.
- Prepare for Your Doctor's Appointment: Document your symptoms, the onset of sores, any other changes, and treatments you’ve tried for your next visit.
It's great that you already have a doctor's appointment scheduled. Share this information with your healthcare provider so they can evaluate the sores and potentially recommend treatment, such as antifungal medication or further tests if needed. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being throughout this process. Let me know if you need more information or support!
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