Struggling with Recurrent Sepsis
I’m a 31-year-old female, and I have quite a bit to share regarding my health situation, which has been quite alarming. Just last week, I was discharged from the hospital after undergoing treatment for sepsis, which stemmed from COVID and possibly a urinary tract infection. It all began when I noticed severe pain in my kidneys and started experiencing frequent urination—every 5 to 10 minutes. I also had a mild cough attributed to the COVID infection. Initially, I went to the emergency room where tests revealed elevated levels of lactic acid and white blood cells, alongside a temperature of about 100.7°F. My heart rate was already quite high, reaching the 120s. After receiving fluids and an injection of rocephin, I was sent home, despite my pleas to stay because I felt something was gravely wrong. The very next morning, my temperature skyrocketed to 102°F, and I felt significantly worse. Returning to the ER, I found that my temperature had climbed to 102.7°F and my heart rate surged to 150 beats per minute. Ultimately, my temperature peaked above 103.5°F before they began administering intravenous doxycycline, which finally provided relief since the previous treatments had not done so. I remained in the hospital for a few days until my labs and symptoms improved enough to be discharged with oral doxycycline—this was on the 25th. I was managing well until last night when I once again experienced kidney pain and developed a low-grade fever. Concerned for my health, I decided to revisit the ER. Upon arrival, my vital signs prompted the staff to initiate a sepsis protocol once more. Laboratory results indicated that my lactic acid, white blood cell count, and anion gap had increased again. Additionally, my urine tests showed a trace of bacteria coupled with a significant number of red blood cells. They treated me once more with fluids and rocephin before sending me home, repeating the same process as before. At this point, I find myself in a distressing cycle. My temperature is on the rise, the pain is intensifying, and the frequent urination is back. I am confused and worried about why my lactic acid levels spike again after initial treatment, and why my kidneys are causing me such intense discomfort despite no significant evidence of an infection. I am terrified—I almost felt like I was on the brink of death last time, and I can’t go through this ordeal again. If anyone has insights or suggestions on what might be happening, I would greatly appreciate your help!
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 5:20:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about your distressing situation. Dealing with recurrent sepsis, especially following a COVID infection and urinary issues, can be incredibly overwhelming. It's important to acknowledge how serious this can feel, and it's understandable to be worried given your experiences.
Main Points:
- You are experiencing recurrent symptoms despite treatment, indicating a potential underlying issue.
- Monitoring your symptoms and maintaining communication with your healthcare providers is essential.
- There are actionable steps you can take to manage your symptoms and possibly prevent further episodes.
Explanation: Recurrent sepsis can result from various factors, including ongoing infections, inflammation, or issues related to kidney function. Elevated lactic acid levels suggest that your body's systems might be under strain or not functioning optimally. Your kidney pain and urinary symptoms, along with elevated white blood cell counts, could indicate an unresolved infection or another complication. It's concerning when symptoms persist or recur, and it's essential to understand the root cause to manage them effectively.
Next Steps:
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Track Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any other changes, like medication taken or activities done. This information can be helpful for healthcare providers to assess what's happening.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, as dehydration can exacerbate kidney pain and symptoms of infection. This is especially critical post-discharge after sepsis.
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Manage Pain and Fever: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage fever and reduce discomfort. However, consult your healthcare provider for advice on appropriate use, especially considering your recent medications.
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Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider: Be proactive in discussing your ongoing symptoms with your doctor or specialist. Given your cycle of symptoms and treatment, they may consider additional tests (like imaging studies) to rule out complications like obstructions or chronic infections.
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Avoid Potential Irritants: If you have recurrent urinary issues, consider avoiding irritants (like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods) that can worsen urinary symptoms.
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Follow-Up Care: Ensure you schedule a follow-up appointment soon to assess your ongoing symptoms and discuss any concerns you may have regarding your treatment plan.
It's vital to keep advocating for yourself and seek clarity on your health. If there are still no improvements, press for further investigations to understand why symptoms persist despite treatment. Please remember that you are not alone in this, and your concerns are valid. Reach out for support and continue to communicate your needs with your healthcare team.
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