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Is Trimethoprim The Right Medication For Severe UTI?
Hi, about 3 days ago I developed a urinary tract infection as I do about once a year. I went to the doctor and got prescribed Trimethoprim as I usually do and the doctor remarked I had a large amount of blood in my urine. This infection has been different to my previous ones as I ve had fever, chills, intense nausea, fatigue and back pain. Just wondering if I should see another doctor to clarify why I still feel this bad?
Trimethoprim can be effective for an uncomplicated UTI. Based on the history given you seem to have a severe type of UTI or acute pyelonephritis (infection of the kidneys). Most of the uncomplicated UTIs can be cured with antibiotics like Cotrimoxazole (Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim), Fluoroquinolones like Levofloxacin depending upon the susceptibility of the offending bacteria responsible for the infection.
Since you seem to have a severe type of UTI you need to have some blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), urine analysis, and a urine culture and sensitivity tests to detect the causative organisms and their susceptibility to common antibiotics. Based on the results of the culture and sensitivity you should take the appropriate antibiotics for at least 10 to 14 days.
Hope these answer your queries. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali
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Is Trimethoprim The Right Medication For Severe UTI?
Hello and welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Trimethoprim can be effective for an uncomplicated UTI. Based on the history given you seem to have a severe type of UTI or acute pyelonephritis (infection of the kidneys). Most of the uncomplicated UTIs can be cured with antibiotics like Cotrimoxazole (Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim), Fluoroquinolones like Levofloxacin depending upon the susceptibility of the offending bacteria responsible for the infection. Since you seem to have a severe type of UTI you need to have some blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), urine analysis, and a urine culture and sensitivity tests to detect the causative organisms and their susceptibility to common antibiotics. Based on the results of the culture and sensitivity you should take the appropriate antibiotics for at least 10 to 14 days. Hope these answer your queries. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali