Urethritis: Why Only Anti-Inflammatories for Fever and Pain? - Urology

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Urethritis... I have symptoms of fever and soreness... but why did the doctor only prescribe anti-inflammatory medication for me?


Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
I was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection the day before, and during my visit, I mentioned to the doctor that I had a slight fever and body aches.
However, he only prescribed me an anti-inflammatory medication called Urogen.
Should I go back to ask for a different medication, or is it okay to just take this one? My body aches are quite severe, and I have started to develop a fever, which makes me very worried.
Please help me, thank you.

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/16

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Xiao Jie: Hello, for general urinary tract infections, after testing the urine and performing cultures, antibiotic treatment is required, with the duration ranging from 3 days to 3 weeks, depending on the type of bacteria.
If there is a fever, it is more appropriate to administer antibiotics after ruling out a cold or confirming a urinary tract infection.
The physician will make a comprehensive assessment and provide an appropriate prescription.
Urology Department Chief, Hsu Wei-Kai, responds on behalf of the Taitung Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, expressing concern for you.

Reply Date: 2005/07/16

More Info


Urethritis, or inflammation of the urethra, can indeed present with symptoms such as fever and body aches. However, the treatment approach can vary based on the underlying cause of the condition. In your case, it seems that your physician prescribed an anti-inflammatory medication (Urogen) to manage your symptoms, which raises the question of why antibiotics or other treatments were not immediately considered.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that urethritis can be caused by various factors, including bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or even non-infectious causes such as irritation from chemicals or trauma. The presence of fever and body aches may indicate a systemic response to an infection, but these symptoms alone do not always necessitate immediate antibiotic therapy.
In many cases, the initial management of urethritis may involve symptomatic treatment, especially if the physician suspects that the infection is mild or if the patient is otherwise stable. Anti-inflammatory medications can help alleviate discomfort, reduce fever, and improve overall well-being. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, or if there are signs of a more severe infection (such as high fever, chills, or severe pain), further evaluation and possibly antibiotic treatment would be warranted.

It is also important to note that the physician may have decided to monitor your condition before initiating antibiotics. This approach allows for a more accurate diagnosis, especially if urine tests or cultures are pending. If a bacterial infection is confirmed, antibiotics will typically be prescribed based on the specific organism identified and its sensitivity to various medications.

Regarding your concern about the severity of your symptoms, it is advisable to follow up with your physician if you do not see improvement after taking the prescribed medication. If you experience worsening symptoms, such as increased fever, persistent pain, or any new symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly. Your physician may decide to perform additional tests, such as a urine culture, to identify the causative agent and tailor the treatment accordingly.

In summary, while anti-inflammatory medications can provide relief for symptoms associated with urethritis, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, returning to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and potential antibiotic therapy is essential. Always communicate openly with your physician about your symptoms and concerns, as they can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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