Post-Antibiotic Itching and Fever: Urology Concerns

Q: Post-Antibiotic Itching and Fever: Urology Concerns

Hello： If you strongly suspect a drug allergy, discontinue the medication. <br>If symptoms do not improve, seek treatment for the allergic reaction in an internal medicine or emergency department. <br>After a few days, you can have a urine test. <br>Wishing you good health; pleas

Experiencing itching all over the body and fever after taking antibiotics?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my situation.
I took two types of antibiotics for the treatment of urethritis on May 31, completing a 7-day course without any allergic reactions.
During my follow-up appointment on June 13, I informed the doctor that I was still experiencing slight itching in the urethra.
The doctor decided to prescribe another week of the same two antibiotics.
During the first visit, I was also given a large yellow fever reducer and a small orange anti-inflammatory medication, but this time I did not receive those.
After taking the antibiotics on the evening of June 13, I experienced full-body itching 1-3 hours later, with red patches appearing on my skin, although they were not raised.
I would like to know if this could be an allergic reaction to the antibiotics, specifically the Pseudomonas aeruginosa tablet.
I rushed back to the urology department to ask, but the doctor said that since I had taken them before without any allergic reactions, it should not be a drug allergy because the medication is the same.
Can I switch to another department for testing, or should I stop taking the antibiotics to alleviate the allergic reaction?

Mr. Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/14

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If you strongly suspect a drug allergy, discontinue the medication.
If symptoms do not improve, seek treatment for the allergic reaction in an internal medicine or emergency department.
After a few days, you can have a urine test.
Wishing you good health; please also pay attention to your diet, as it may also cause allergies.

Reply Date: 2022/06/14

More Info

When dealing with post-antibiotic symptoms such as itching and fever, especially after a course of antibiotics for a urinary tract infection (UTI), it is essential to consider several factors. Your experience of itching and the appearance of red patches on your skin after taking the antibiotics raises concerns about a possible allergic reaction or side effects from the medication.

Firstly, while it is true that you did not experience any allergic reactions during your initial course of antibiotics, it is still possible to develop an allergy after repeated exposure to the same medication. This phenomenon is known as sensitization, where the immune system becomes reactive to a substance after prior exposure. Therefore, the itching and skin reactions you are experiencing could indeed be related to the antibiotics you are currently taking, even if you did not have a reaction previously.

In addition to allergic reactions, antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body, particularly in the gut and vaginal flora. This disruption can lead to overgrowth of yeast, such as Candida, which can cause itching and discomfort in the genital area. This condition is often referred to as a yeast infection, and it can occur after antibiotic treatment. Symptoms may include itching, burning, and unusual discharge, which might be mistaken for a UTI or a reaction to the antibiotics.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to take the following steps:
1. Consult Your Doctor: Since you are experiencing these new symptoms, it is crucial to return to your healthcare provider. Explain your symptoms in detail, including the timing of the itching and the appearance of the red patches. Your doctor may consider switching you to a different class of antibiotics or may suggest alternative treatments.

2. Consider Allergy Testing: If your doctor suspects that you may have developed an allergy to the antibiotics, they might refer you to an allergist for further evaluation. Allergy testing can help determine if you are indeed allergic to the medication.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in your skin, itching, fever, or any other new symptoms. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

4. Discontinue Medication if Necessary: If your symptoms are severe or worsening, it may be appropriate to stop taking the antibiotics until you can consult with your doctor. However, do not stop any prescribed medication without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.

5. Consider Probiotics: If you are experiencing symptoms related to yeast overgrowth, your doctor may recommend probiotics to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your body. Probiotics can be beneficial in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea and may help with yeast infections.

6. Hydration and Rest: Ensure you are staying well-hydrated and getting adequate rest, as these factors can support your immune system during recovery.

In conclusion, while it is possible that your symptoms are related to the antibiotics, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They will be able to assess your symptoms, consider alternative treatments, and determine if further testing is necessary. Your health and comfort are paramount, and addressing these concerns promptly will help ensure a better outcome.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Fever After Urethritis: Is It a Cause for Concern?

After going to the hospital for an X-ray, ultrasound, and urinalysis (hematuria), the doctor diagnosed me with urethritis. I was prescribed five medications: Doxycycline capsules, Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim film-coated tablets, Ketorolac film-coated tablets, Magnesium oxide ta...

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology
If symptoms persist after taking medication, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.

Understanding Post-Antibiotic Symptoms: Urology Concerns Explained

Hello Dr. Du: On October 9th, I had unprotected oral sex with a woman, and two days later (October 11th), I started experiencing urethral pain, but there were no noticeable discharge symptoms. After the pain worsened, I consulted a urologist. Due to the absence of significant d...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1. Is this symptom more likely to be caused by Chlamydia or Mycoplasma infection? --> Both are possible, and it could also be due to other bacteria. 2. Are those clear mucus secretions really unrelated as the doctor said, and should I just wait it out? --> Engagi...

Managing Recurring High Fever and Urgency: A Urology Perspective

Due to work commitments, I am currently in Germany and will not be able to return to Taiwan for about two weeks. I would like to consult a physician regarding emergency measures and follow-up procedures. Ten years ago, I experienced symptoms such as hematuria and frequent urinati...

Dr. Zhang Chengye reply Urology
Possible cystitis with acute nephritis; urine tests should be conducted for confirmation before initiating antibiotic treatment. Refer to urology or infectious disease specialists. The patient reports symptoms of frequent urination and fever.

Understanding Urinary Tract Issues: Foreign Object Insertion, Infection, and Fever

Hello Doctor, here’s the situation: Two weeks ago, I inserted a suction catheter into my urinary tract quite deeply. When I removed the catheter, it was filled with blood, and my urine was also bloody. After two or three days, the blood in my urine stopped, and I didn't expe...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
It sounds like prostatitis. The absence of bacteria in the urine culture does not rule out a bacterial infection. You should promptly visit a urologist for proper treatment. Describe your symptoms to the doctor, and he will understand right away.