Persistent UTI: Seeking Answers
At 45 years old, I am facing major kidney issues, specifically renal tubular acidosis and medullary sponge kidney disease. For the past two decades, I have been dealing with chronic kidney stones. Earlier this month, I spent a week in the hospital and was discharged with a PICC line to self-administer Meropenem over a two-week period. Unfortunately, the infection seemed to resolve briefly—only for about two days—before my symptoms resurfaced. These include persistent back and flank pain, alongside frequent urination. Today, my urologist requested another urinalysis, which confirmed yet another urinary tract infection. In response, he prescribed Doxycycline for a seven-day course. However, I'm experiencing a fever tonight with the same discomfort I've been enduring. I have two pressing questions: What could be causing this ongoing infection despite an extended antibiotic treatment, and should I seek immediate care at the emergency department?
Answers (1)
7/31/2025, 12:11:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you’re feeling overwhelmed by your persistent urinary tract infection (UTI) and the complicating factors from your kidney issues. It's concerning that despite treatment, you're still experiencing symptoms and have developed a fever. Let’s break down your questions and outline the necessary steps.
Main Points:
- Possible Causes for Ongoing Infection: Chronic infections can result from several factors, including antibiotic resistance, incomplete treatment of the initial infection, or an underlying condition that predisposes you to UTIs, such as the structural abnormalities from your kidney disease.
- Immediate Care Consideration: Given your fever and the ongoing pain, it’s crucial to assess whether your symptoms require medical attention.
Explanation:
- Chronic UTIs can occur if bacteria become resistant to the antibiotics prescribed or if the infection continues to thrive in the urinary tract. Your renal tubular acidosis and medullary sponge kidney disease may complicate your urinary tract, making it easier for infections to recur.
- Symptoms like persistent back and flank pain along with a fever suggest that your body could still be fighting an infection, and this combination can indicate a more serious condition, potentially involving your kidneys, like pyelonephritis, which may require urgent attention.
Next Steps:
-
Seek Immediate Care: Given that you have a fever and ongoing discomfort, I strongly recommend that you go to the emergency department. These symptoms, particularly in the context of your medical history, warrant prompt evaluation to rule out any severe complications.
-
Prepare for Your Visit:
- Bring your medical records, including details about your previous infections and treatments.
- List all medications you're currently taking to help healthcare professionals understand your situation better.
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Continue Monitoring Symptoms: Once you receive care, pay attention to any changes in your symptoms and follow up as needed with your urologist. Encouragingly, your urologist is aware of your situation, and their input will be crucial in guiding your ongoing care.
Your concerns are valid, and it's understandable to feel anxious about these repeated infections. Seeking immediate care is the best step forward. Please keep me posted on how you’re doing or if you have more questions later. Take care.
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