Urinary Tract Infection

[LesterCD]

In 1999 and again in 2006 I underwent bladder tact surgery with the application of a mesh sling. In March 2008 I was hospitalized for the sudden onset of a kidney infection. After 5 days in the hospital, I was released and given antibiotics for the UTI that remained. Since then there has only been a few weeks between September & November, 2008 when I did not have a UTI

Multiple urine cultures consistently reveal eColi as the bacteria present in my urine. I have been treated with a multitude of oral antibiotics (Cipro, Macrobid, Bactrim, Dioxycycline, Monurol, Metronidazole, and Sulfamethoxazole & Trimethoprim). This was followed by intravenous PICC line treatment with Invanz that provided temporary relief. When the UTI soon reoccurred, I was retreated with more oral antibiotics and a series of shots of Jenamicin; all again to no avail.

I have undergone all the appropriate testing such as cystoscope, urodynamics, CT scan, and colonoscopy. Conclusions from all the test are that I have diverticulitis and gall stones which are unassociated with the UTI. In addition, findings suggest that the infection present is in the urethra, not the bladder. No fistulas have been identified.

All the while I have not presented the usual symptoms associated with UTI such as painful urination. My symptoms are frequent urination, uncontrollable flatulence, intermittent pain in the lower abdomen and flanks. In addition, I have chronic joint pain in my knees and sometimes hips. I have swelling of my lower legs, ankles and feet with foot pain in the arch area. Other symptoms include frequent rapid heartbeat, constant fatigue, and occasional, sudden neck, jaw and mouth pain.

I have been treated by two cardiologists during this same period. Both are in agreement that I do not have a heart condition of any sort. I do have an underactive thyroid for which I take daily medication. I also have severe sleep apnea and use a CPAP every night.

My urologist is now suggesting that none of my symptoms are associated with the UTI. He feels that I am asymptomatic and therefore should just not worry about the infection. I feel that he has just given up since the source of the infection is not evident. I feel that he is no longer interested in my long-term health causing me to feel unworthy of a cure.

I do not understand how any doctor could recommend that a 49 year old person be satisfied with living with a constant infection. It seems reasonable to believe that I would feel better overall if my body was not constantly battling this bacteria that clearly does not belong in my urinary tract.

Where do I turn? Do I have unreasonable expectations? Am I not worthy of a cure? How do I find an advocate?