Managing UTI Symptoms After Double J Stent Placement: Antibiotic Guidance

Q: Managing UTI Symptoms After Double J Stent Placement: Antibiotic Guidance

Hello： A double J stent is generally not placed for a long duration; it depends on the reason for its placement. <br>If it needs to be left in for an extended period, prophylactic antibiotics are commonly used to prevent infection. <br>Common side effects of having a double J ste

Urinary tract infection / Double-lumen catheter issues

On January 3rd, I underwent a procedure to place a double J stent.
After being discharged on January 4th, I began experiencing cloudy urine and painful urination, while also using antibiotics (Cefuroxime).
However, the symptoms persisted for a week, during which I had a fever for one night, which I believe was just a common cold.
On January 11th, during a follow-up visit, the doctor only prescribed a different antibiotic (Tobramycin) for my current treatment, but the symptoms are still quite pronounced.
How long does it typically take for symptoms to improve with this type of antibiotic? If the symptoms persist after completing the course, should I consider switching to another antibiotic?

JJJ, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/13

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: A double J stent is generally not placed for a long duration; it depends on the reason for its placement.
If it needs to be left in for an extended period, prophylactic antibiotics are commonly used to prevent infection.
Common side effects of having a double J stent include dysuria, increased urinary frequency, and hematuria.
A small percentage may experience infection, but in most cases, medication can manage these symptoms.
Once the designated time has elapsed, the stent will be removed.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/01/13

More Info

Managing urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms after the placement of a double J stent can be quite challenging. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as cloudy urine and painful urination, are common after such procedures due to irritation of the urinary tract. The fact that you have been prescribed antibiotics, specifically Ciprofloxacin (賜福力欣) and later, another antibiotic (圖留康), indicates that your healthcare provider is addressing a potential infection or inflammation.

Understanding Antibiotic Treatment
Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat bacterial infections. In the case of UTIs, the choice of antibiotic can depend on the specific bacteria causing the infection, as well as local resistance patterns. Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is often effective against a wide range of bacteria, while the second antibiotic you mentioned may target different bacterial strains.

1. Duration of Antibiotic Therapy: The duration of antibiotic treatment for UTIs can vary. Generally, a course of antibiotics may last from 3 to 7 days, depending on the severity of the infection and the specific antibiotic used. In some cases, especially if the infection is complicated or recurrent, a longer course may be necessary.

2. Symptom Relief Timeline: Patients often start to feel relief from UTI symptoms within a few days of starting antibiotics. However, it is not uncommon for some symptoms to persist for a week or more, especially after procedures like stent placement, which can cause additional irritation.
3. When to Change Antibiotics: If you complete the prescribed course of antibiotics and still experience significant symptoms, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a urine culture to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine if there is resistance to the antibiotics you have been taking. Based on this information, they may prescribe a different antibiotic that is more effective against the identified bacteria.

Additional Considerations
- Fever: The one-night fever you experienced could be related to the infection or a response to the procedure itself. If you experience persistent fever, chills, or other systemic symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention, as these could indicate a more serious infection.

- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and may alleviate some symptoms. Aim to drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise advised by your healthcare provider.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort associated with UTI symptoms. However, consult your doctor before taking any new medications.

- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments are essential after stent placement. Your healthcare provider will monitor your symptoms and the effectiveness of the treatment. If symptoms persist, further evaluation may be necessary, including imaging studies or additional tests.

Conclusion
In summary, managing UTI symptoms after double J stent placement requires careful monitoring and appropriate antibiotic therapy. If symptoms persist after completing your current antibiotic course, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and potential changes to your treatment plan. Always communicate any new or worsening symptoms to ensure timely and effective care.

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