[Question #12825] Continuing Issues
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4 months ago
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Hi, I am still having the same issues as before with the added bonus of persistent joint pain. I have visited primary care (multiple times), a urologist, GI doctor, and now a rheumatologist with a wide battery of tests, no indications of cause, and no improvement. The rheumatologist suggested I may have an STI that is so weak it is not being detected on tests. Before I fall back down that rabbit hole, is that a real concern? She suggested my next step might be an infectious disease specialist. Is it possible this is just a UTI that is not being picked up on the culture? Thanks in advance.
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
4 months ago
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Welcome back to the Forum. I'm so glad you checked back with us before goring down the "rabbit hole" of worrying about your test results. In preparing to respond, I reviewed your prior interaction with Dr. Handsfield and agree with all that he said. I can assure you that your testing absolutely proves that you do not have and STI. Current tests for STIs, particularly those for gonorrhea and chlamydia are amongst the most sensitive tests in all of medicine and your multiple negative tests should be believed. I can dismiss the possibility that there may be an undetected STI with complete confidence..
In reviewing your symptoms and situation that I did not see covered was the (low) possibility of prostatitis, If you have not seen a urologist you might. If you already have and I missed it, then I apologize. Discomfort and the tip of the penis and testicular discomfort can both be signs of prostatitis. Other than that, I have little more to offer. I urge you not to worry about STIs however. I am confident that whatever is going on is NOT related to the sexual interaction you described in your original post. EWH
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4 months ago
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Dr. Hook,
Thank-you for the very quick response. As you can imagine, having had to deal with this for the past year and a half has been very stressful. Your answer is reassuring and I feel very satisfied with the line of inquiry. Thank-you again for all you do!
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
4 months ago
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I'm please I could be of assistance. EWH---