33-Year-Old Experiencing Persistent Penile Discharge with Negative STI Results
Hello everyone, I'm reaching out in hopes of finding some guidance, as I feel my general practitioner isn't addressing my situation with the urgency it deserves. Approximately two months ago, shortly after engaging in sexual activity, I began to experience symptoms that included a creamy penile discharge, pain while urinating, difficulty voiding completely, and itchiness. Concerned, I promptly consulted my GP, who conducted several swabs and urine tests while initially suspecting gonorrhea or chlamydia. I was prescribed a 7-day course of doxycycline along with a ceftriaxone injection. However, five days into the treatment, I noticed no improvement and returned to the clinic. Although tests for the two STIs turned out negative, my urinalysis revealed a positive result for "mixed bacterial growth." The doctor hypothesized a urinary tract infection and prescribed a week of cefalexin, alongside another 7-day course of doxycycline. Additional tests, including a full STI panel with blood work and swabs for mycoplasma and other potential parasites, were also performed. After completing the cefalexin course, there was a temporary alleviation of my symptoms, apart from ongoing difficulties with urination, but they recurred shortly thereafter. I went back to my GP once again, only to find all tests returned negative. Nevertheless, my urine had visible floating mucus, raising concerns. Next, the clinic suspected prostatitis and prescribed yet another 7-day course of doxycycline, along with a higher dose of cefalexin for 14 days. I have just completed this regimen, and although my symptoms initially improved, I am starting to experience them again about three days after finishing the medication. I've received a referral to a urologist, but the wait until December feels excessively long given the discomfort I'm enduring. An ultrasound examining my prostate, kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract indicated no significant issues, other than my prostate being slightly larger than average and some difficulty during the procedure due to an inability to completely empty my bladder. I'm feeling quite lost and anxious about what to do next, as I really don't want to endure this condition for an additional three months before seeing a specialist. If anyone has advice on how to address this issue more urgently, I would greatly appreciate it. Background: 33 years old, male, Caucasian, 180 cm tall, weighing 73 kg, with no other medical issues, not on any medications, and no recent lifestyle changes.
Answers (1)
9/6/2025, 5:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing these persistent symptoms; that can be both frustrating and concerning. Let's break down your situation and consider some practical steps to help you manage your discomfort and expedite your care.
Summary of Key Points
- You are experiencing ongoing penile discharge, urinary issues, and discomfort despite treatment for STIs and a urinary tract infection (UTI).
- You've already undergone multiple treatments, and while you've seen some temporary relief, your symptoms have returned.
- You are feeling anxious about the wait for a urologist appointment.
Explanation
It's understandable to feel lost given your complex situation. Your symptoms suggest a chronic issue that may not be solely linked to a typical UTI or STI. Conditions like prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), or other underlying factors may require a urologist to provide a thorough evaluation.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms: when they occur, their intensity, and any associated factors (diet, activities, etc.). This can be crucial for your upcoming specialist appointment.
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Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush your urinary system. This can often relieve some discomfort from irritation or infection.
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Avoid Irritants: Limit substances that could irritate your urinary tract, such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic fruits, which may exacerbate your symptoms.
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Thermal Comfort: Applying a warm compress to your lower abdomen may help ease discomfort and provide some relief while you wait for your appointment.
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Seek Urgent Care: If symptoms worsen significantly or if you develop new or severe issues (like fever, severe pain, or inability to urinate), consider seeking urgent or emergency care to address your condition.
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Follow-Up on Urologist Referral: Contact the urologist's office to see if they have any cancellation slots available for an earlier appointment. It's worth explaining your situation to see if they can prioritize your case.
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Consider Multiple Opinions: If waiting becomes unbearable, exploring a second opinion from a different urologist or clinic could provide you with different insights or quicker access to care.
Conclusion
Managing these symptoms can be challenging, but you're taking the right steps by seeking help and monitoring your condition. By implementing the suggested strategies, you can work towards relief until your appointment. If you have any further questions or need additional support, feel free to reach out. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are pathways to managing your symptoms more effectively.
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