Seeking Urgent Advice!
Hello everyone! Currently, I find myself in the UK. Although I'm British, I've spent a considerable time abroad. I am experiencing extreme burning sensations in my abdomen and recently visited a walk-in clinic where I was tested for a urinary tract infection. The diagnosis appeared straightforward, and I was prescribed a three-day course of Nitrofurantoin at 100mg. However, after two days of treatment, the pain persisted, prompting me to seek assistance at the Accident & Emergency department. At A&E, my blood was taken, though the renal markers were not included, and no signs of infection or inflammation were detected. Unfortunately, after a lengthy five-hour wait with estimates suggesting it could be another five hours, I had to leave because I simply couldn’t endure the wait any longer. The following day, I continued to feel an urgent need to urinate, with a sensation that my bladder was constantly throbbing. To get answers, I opted for a private scan, which revealed that my bladder was indeed enlarged. The results from the bladder measurements were as follows: - Post-void: Length 5.85 cm, Width 6.96 cm, Height 6.76 cm - Pre-void: Length 7.63 cm, Width 9.87 cm, Height 8.98 cm Additionally, the scan indicated mildly dilated collecting systems in both kidneys. I managed to secure another three-day supply of Nitrofurantoin, but I’m increasingly concerned that this might extend beyond a simple UTI. The pain is incredibly severe, and if I have a full bladder and can't reach the restroom, it leads to discomfort in my legs and further abdominal pain. I would appreciate any guidance on this matter. Is there a private GP available that I could consult? Given that it's Saturday night, should I wait until Monday? Any advice would be greatly valued!
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 8:40:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear that you're going through such severe discomfort. It sounds like you're experiencing a significant urinary issue that requires immediate attention, especially given the persistent pain and urinary symptoms. Here's how to approach your situation:
Main Points
- Your symptoms suggest a potentially serious condition. The burning sensation, enlarged bladder, and pain indicate you may have a complicated urinary issue rather than a straightforward UTI.
- Action is needed this weekend. Waiting until Monday is not advisable given your symptoms and the impact they're having on your quality of life.
Explanation
The fact that you're experiencing severe abdominal pain and an enlarged bladder suggests that something is obstructing normal urination or causing irritation. While Nitrofurantoin is effective for common UTIs, if you aren’t seeing improvement, it could mean that your situation is more complex, such as a urinary obstruction or another underlying issue.
The results of your private scan, particularly the enlarged bladder and mildly dilated collecting systems in your kidneys, raise concerns that you could be at risk for further complications, including kidney damage.
Next Steps
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
- Since it’s a Saturday night and you’re in significant pain, consider going back to an urgent care facility or another A&E department. Explain your history and the scan results firmly to prioritize your case.
- If nearby emergency services or private urgent care clinics are available and open, consider visiting them for a quicker evaluation.
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Manage Symptoms:
- While you await medical attention, continue taking the antibiotics as prescribed but monitor for any worsening of symptoms.
- Stay hydrated, but be cautious not to overdrink if it causes increased urgency and pain. Small sips can help keep you from feeling overly full.
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Consider Private GP Consultations:
- If you feel you need more immediate attention than what's available in urgent care, look for private GP practices that might offer evening and weekend consultations. They can often provide faster assessments and possibly refer you for imaging or further testing.
Reassurance
It’s understandable to feel anxious given the pain and uncertainty about your health. Prioritizing urgent medical care is essential in situations like this, and addressing your symptoms sooner rather than later will help reduce discomfort and any potential complications. Please take care and ensure you seek the help you need quickly.
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