Urethritis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Side Effects

Urethritis issues?

Dear Doctor, I have been treated for urethritis with gonorrhea medication (injections and oral medication), but it was ineffective.
Now I have switched to erythromycin, taking 2 tablets per meal, totaling 8 tablets a day.
I have noticed some improvement, but I am experiencing stomach pain, a feeling of tightness in my chest, and slightly rapid breathing.
Is this normal? Could it be a side effect? Should I stop the medication?

Xiao Guadai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/12/24

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, regarding urethritis, a bacterial culture is typically performed.
If there is suspicion of certain specific strains (such as non-gonococcal urethritis), erythromycin may indeed be used.
As for its side effects, gastrointestinal symptoms are the most common, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Additionally, erythromycin can interact with certain medications, such as purine analogs used by asthma patients and antiepileptic drugs, so caution is advised when using it.
If side effects are a concern, a newer generation of erythromycin, such as Zithromax, can be considered, which requires only one dose per day and has very few side effects.
As for experiencing wheezing, it is relatively uncommon, and one might need to consider whether it is due to a specific constitution or an allergic reaction.
If symptoms are severe, it is advisable to switch medications.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Sincerely, Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2009/12/24

More Info

Urethritis, an inflammation of the urethra, can be caused by various factors, including infections from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like gonorrhea and chlamydia, as well as non-infectious causes. Symptoms typically include painful urination, discharge from the urethra, and sometimes itching or irritation. In your case, it seems that you initially received treatment for gonorrhea, but it was ineffective, leading to a switch to erythromycin, which is an antibiotic that can be used for various bacterial infections.

The symptoms you are experiencing—abdominal pain, feelings of anxiety or heart palpitations, and shortness of breath—can indeed be side effects of erythromycin. Common side effects of erythromycin include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Additionally, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or more severe side effects, which can include heart rhythm changes that might lead to feelings of anxiety or palpitations.

Given your symptoms, it is essential to assess whether they are manageable or if they warrant discontinuation of the medication. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of the severity and frequency of your symptoms. If they worsen or become intolerable, it may be necessary to stop the medication.

2. Consult Your Doctor: It is crucial to communicate with your healthcare provider about the side effects you are experiencing. They can provide guidance on whether to continue the medication or consider alternative treatments. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, seek immediate medical attention.

3. Consider Alternatives: If erythromycin is causing significant side effects, your doctor may prescribe a different antibiotic that is effective against the bacteria causing your urethritis. There are several options available, and your doctor can help determine the best course of action based on your specific situation.

4. Hydration and Rest: Ensure you are well-hydrated and get plenty of rest, as this can help your body cope with the side effects of the medication.

5. Follow-Up Testing: If your symptoms persist despite treatment, further evaluation may be necessary. This could include testing for other potential causes of urethritis or complications that may arise from untreated infections.

In summary, while erythromycin can be effective for treating urethritis, the side effects you are experiencing are concerning and should not be ignored. It is essential to have open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment while managing any adverse effects. If you feel that your symptoms are severe or worsening, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.

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