Dealing with Urethritis: When to Seek Further Medical Help

What should I do about urethritis?

I visited a urologist 10 days ago, and the doctor diagnosed me with urethritis.
I was prescribed medication for 3 days and a topical ointment to apply.
However, I have already finished the medication, and although I haven't applied the ointment daily, I have used it at least every other day due to my busy work schedule.
It has now been 10 days, and I see no signs of improvement.
Recently, I have been experiencing sudden itching at the tip of my penis, and there is a burning sensation during urination, which I did not have before.
What should I do now? Should I schedule a follow-up appointment? I feel like I'm not getting better, and I'm wondering if it's because I haven't applied the ointment every day.
I've also noticed yellowish-white discharge from the tip, which I didn't have initially.
I'm unsure whether to return for a follow-up or to continue using the ointment until it's finished.
I would appreciate any guidance you can provide.
Thank you, doctor!

Xiao Ge, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/24

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, you need to return for a follow-up due to some bacteria causing urethritis, which may require a longer treatment duration.
A course of antibiotics for 14-21 days is sometimes necessary.
I recommend performing a urine culture and a culture of any secretions.
If you have any further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask, and we can discuss it further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should seek care at a medical facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2016/01/24

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing persistent symptoms related to urethritis, and I understand how concerning this can be. Urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra, can be caused by various factors, including infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), irritants, or even sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Given that you have been on medication for ten days without improvement, it is crucial to reassess your situation.

First and foremost, if you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms such as increased itching, burning during urination, and unusual discharge (especially if it is yellow or white), it is essential to seek further medical attention. These symptoms could indicate that the initial treatment was not effective, or that there may be a different underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Here are some steps you should consider:
1. Return to Your Healthcare Provider: Given that your symptoms have not improved and have even worsened, it is advisable to return to your healthcare provider for a follow-up appointment. They may need to conduct further tests, such as a urine culture or a swab, to identify the specific cause of your symptoms. This is particularly important if there is a possibility of a sexually transmitted infection or if the initial diagnosis was not confirmed.

2. Discuss Your Treatment: When you see your doctor, be sure to discuss the medications you were prescribed, including the duration of treatment and how you used the topical medication. It is possible that the treatment was not sufficient for the type of infection you have, or that a different medication is needed.

3. Consider Other Causes: In addition to infections, other factors can contribute to urethritis symptoms. These can include irritation from soaps, lotions, or other products, as well as allergic reactions. Make sure to mention any new products you have used or any changes in your routine that might be relevant.

4. Hydration and Symptom Management: While you are waiting for your appointment, ensure you are drinking plenty of water, as this can help flush out your urinary system. Avoid irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can exacerbate symptoms.

5. Follow-Up on Discharge: The presence of discharge, especially if it is new or different from what you experienced before, should be evaluated by your doctor. This could indicate a secondary infection or another condition that requires treatment.

6. Don't Delay Seeking Help: If your symptoms worsen or if you develop fever, chills, or severe pain, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious infection that requires prompt treatment.

In summary, it is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your ongoing symptoms and any concerns you have. Urethritis can often be effectively treated, but it may require adjustments to your treatment plan based on your specific situation. Your health and well-being are paramount, so seeking further medical help is the best course of action at this point.

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