Concerns After Antibiotic Treatment
I am a 32-year-old male, weighing 180 pounds and standing at 5'9". My medical history includes schizoaffective disorder of the bipolar type, stage 3b kidney disease, and issues with herniated discs and sciatica. Currently, my medications consist of Geodon, Vraylar, Wellbutrin, Prazosin, Klonopin, and Neurontin. Recently, I completed a 7-day regimen of Clindamycin to address a gum infection. Since finishing the antibiotic yesterday, I have been experiencing severe liquid diarrhea and occasional vomiting throughout the week. Unfortunately, my symptoms have worsened rather than improved, and I've been unable to function normally; anything I attempt to eat simply passes through without digesting. I consulted two different physicians—one advised me to discontinue the medication, while the other emphasized the importance of completing the course. I have an upcoming appointment with my primary care physician, but I'm eager to know what to anticipate regarding my recovery from these gastrointestinal issues. I could use any suggestions for getting out of this curled-up position and reducing my urgent trips to the restroom. My main concern is the potential effects of dehydration on my kidneys. I've been experiencing discomfort beneath my ribs, alongside similar pain in my back. I've been trying to stay hydrated with Liquid IV, although I've been advised against taking medications like Imodium. Any tips or recommendations to navigate through this challenging situation would be greatly appreciated! It has been truly distressing.
Answers (1)
9/14/2025, 9:30:56 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns. It sounds like you’re going through a very challenging situation with significant gastrointestinal symptoms following your antibiotic treatment. It's crucial to address both your symptoms and the potential impact on your kidney health.
Main Points:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms after antibiotics are common and may require supportive care.
- Monitoring for dehydration is vital, especially given your kidney condition.
- There are specific steps you can take to manage symptoms and improve your comfort.
Explanation:
Antibiotics like clindamycin can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your gut, leading to issues like diarrhea and nausea. This is known as antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Given your history of kidney disease, it's important to manage dehydration carefully since it can strain your kidneys further.
Next Steps:
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Hydration is Key: Continue to stay well-hydrated, but focus on electrolyte solutions (like Pedialyte or electrolyte powders) if you find Liquid IV isn’t helping enough. This will help replenish lost fluids and essential minerals. Aim for small sips throughout the day rather than larger amounts at once.
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Diet Adjustments: If you can tolerate it, try to consume bland foods that are gentle on the stomach such as:
- Bananas
- Rice
- Applesauce
- Toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet) Avoid fatty, spicy, or high-fiber foods as these may exacerbate your symptoms.
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Rest and Comfort: Allow your body to rest. Position yourself in a way that feels comfortable, such as lying on your side with knees pulled up slightly. This may help ease any abdominal discomfort you're experiencing.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of how your symptoms evolve. If your diarrhea persists beyond a few days or if you notice any signs of dehydration (such as extreme thirst, dark urine, dizziness, or reduced urination), prioritize reaching out to your primary care doctor sooner than your appointment.
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Avoid Over-the-Counter Meds: Unless advised by a healthcare professional, avoid medications like Imodium, as they can worsen certain conditions related to diarrhea caused by antibiotics.
Support:
It's completely understandable to feel distressed with these symptoms, especially considering your health history. Know that it’s important to listen to your body and take things slowly. Your upcoming appointment with your primary care physician is a good opportunity to discuss your symptoms in detail and receive tailored medical advice.
If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask! Your well-being is important, and I'm here to help.
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