Urethral Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Continuation ~ Urethral Issues ~

Hello Dr.
Hsu, this is the patient Xiao Jie who asked you a question before.
I previously mentioned that out of curiosity, I inserted a foreign object into my urethra, which caused slight bleeding and acute swelling at the urethral opening.
Recently, I have started to feel pain in my penis (urethra) again.
However, I had previously visited a urologist who performed a urinalysis and said there was no inflammation.
Before the urinalysis, I took antibiotics and a medication for streptococcus that were prescribed by the hospital.
Could this have affected the urinalysis results, leading to no signs of inflammation? Should I go back to see a doctor? The last time I visited, the doctor advised me not to continue taking the remaining medication since there were no signs of inflammation.
However, I feel something is off, and since I felt pain at the site of the previous injury, I took more antibiotics and the streptococcus medication.
Is this okay? Additionally, I read some articles online about whether inserting a foreign object into the urethra could have scratched the urethral mucosa.
Will this not heal? Is there a need for urethral reconstruction surgery? Thank you!

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/12/02

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, you can check your urine 7 days after stopping antibiotics.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers from the internet should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should visit a medical institution for treatment.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, who cares about you.

Reply Date: 2011/12/02

More Info

Hello, 小傑,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your urethral issues. It’s understandable to feel anxious about your symptoms, especially after experiencing trauma to such a sensitive area. Let’s break down your situation and discuss the appropriate steps you should take.

Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that inserting a foreign object into the urethra can lead to various complications, including trauma to the urethral lining, potential infections, and scarring. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as pain in the penis and urethra, could be indicative of several issues, including irritation from the initial injury, inflammation, or even a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Regarding your concern about the urine test results, it is indeed possible that taking antibiotics before the test could affect the results. Antibiotics can suppress bacterial growth, which may lead to a false-negative result for an infection. If you were experiencing symptoms of infection, such as pain or discomfort, it is crucial to communicate this to your healthcare provider. They may recommend a repeat urine test, ideally after a period without antibiotics, to get an accurate assessment of your urinary health.

Given that you are still experiencing pain and discomfort, it would be advisable to return to your urologist or seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed. It’s essential to have a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies or a cystoscopy, to evaluate the condition of your urethra and rule out any serious complications such as strictures or persistent inflammation.

As for your concern about potential damage to the urethral lining, it is possible that the insertion of a foreign object could cause abrasions or lacerations. In many cases, these injuries can heal on their own, but if there is significant damage or if you develop scar tissue (stricture), it could lead to long-term issues. Urethral reconstruction surgery is typically reserved for severe cases where there is significant scarring or blockage. However, this is not the first line of treatment and would only be considered after other options have been explored.

In the meantime, it’s crucial to avoid self-medicating with antibiotics without medical supervision, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance and other complications. Instead, focus on maintaining good hygiene and monitoring your symptoms. If you notice any worsening of your condition, such as increased pain, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult Your Urologist: Return to your urologist for a follow-up appointment. Be honest about your symptoms and the medications you have taken. Request a thorough examination and possibly repeat urine tests without antibiotics.

2. Avoid Self-Medication: Refrain from taking antibiotics or any other medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including pain levels, urinary habits, and any new symptoms that may arise.

4. Seek Support: If you feel uncomfortable discussing your situation with your current healthcare provider, consider seeking a second opinion from another urologist.

Your health and well-being are paramount, and it’s essential to address these issues with a qualified healthcare provider who can guide you through the appropriate treatment options. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, as timely intervention can prevent further complications.

Take care, and I hope you find relief soon.

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