Ongoing UTI Concerns - Seeking Guidance
Hello, I am a 25-year-old female experiencing persistent urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms, particularly characterized by urine that has an unusual odor and the presence of white particles. Notably, I haven’t felt any discomfort or burning during urination. After undergoing a urine culture, I was diagnosed with an E. coli UTI and received a prescription for Keflex at a dosage of 500mg taken four times a day for five days to eliminate the infection. It has now been a week since I completed my Keflex treatment, yet I continue to notice white particles in my urine, and the foul smell seems to be returning. I conducted another urine culture recently and am currently waiting on the results. I’m anxious to understand what steps I should take next as this situation is quite unsettling for me. Additionally, I had blood tests done to assess my kidney function, and fortunately, all results came back normal.
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 7:10:32 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with persistent UTI symptoms, particularly an unusual smell and white particles in your urine, despite completing treatment for an E. coli infection. It's understandable to feel anxious about this situation. Let’s address your concerns step-by-step and outline some actions you can take.
Main Points:
- Persistent symptoms after UTI treatment may indicate a few possible issues.
- It's crucial to monitor any new symptoms and prepare for your follow-up with your healthcare provider.
Explanation:
Urinary tract infections can sometimes be tricky to fully resolve, especially if the bacteria are resistant to the initially prescribed antibiotics or if there are other underlying issues like dietary factors or a different type of infection. The presence of white particles could indicate pus cells or crystals, which can occur with infections or dehydration.
Next Steps:
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Hydration: Increase your water intake. Aim for at least 8-10 cups (2-2.5 liters) daily unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. This helps flush out your urinary system and may reduce odor and particle formation.
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Avoid Irritants: Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, as these can irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms over the next few days. Note any changes in frequency, color, smell, or any new discomfort. If you develop symptoms like fever, chills, or severe abdominal pain, this would warrant more immediate attention.
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Follow Up: Once your urine culture results are available, reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss them. They may recommend a different antibiotic, further tests to rule out other causes (like interstitial cystitis), or dietary adjustments.
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Probiotics: Consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods (like yogurt with live cultures) or supplements into your diet, as they may help balance your gut and urinary flora.
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Hygiene Practices: After using the bathroom, make sure to wipe from front to back and urinate after sexual intercourse to help prevent future infections.
Remember, it's important to keep open communication with your healthcare provider about any ongoing or worsening symptoms. You're taking the right steps by monitoring your situation and seeking guidance. Stay positive as you await your test results, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need more advice or support.
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