Final answer:
When prescribed sulfonamides for a UTI, Mary should be made aware of common side effects like skin rashes, GI issues, and photosensitivity, as well as more severe reactions, including serious skin reactions and blood disorders. Staying hydrated can help prevent crystalluria, and avoiding sun exposure is crucial due to photosensitivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Possible Side Effects of Sulfonamides for UTI Treatment
When Dr. Merry prescribes sulfonamides for Mary's UTI, characterized by symptoms such as urinary frequency and burning dysuria, she should be informed of potential side effects. Sulfonamides can cause various adverse reactions ranging from mild to severe. Some common side effects include:
• Skin rashes and itching
• Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
• Headaches and dizziness
More severe reactions, although rarer, include:
• Steven-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, which are serious skin reactions
• Agranulocytosis or thrombocytopenia, which are types of blood disorders
• Liver damage or hepatitis
• Crystalluria, which can lead to kidney stones
Mary should watch for symptoms like widespread rash, unusual bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, or signs of liver issues such as yellowing of the skin or eyes. Additionally, sulfonamides can alter the normal balance of bacteria, potentially leading to secondary infections such as yeast infections.
Patients should stay well-hydrated to minimize the risk of crystalluria and avoid excessive sun exposure due to the risk of photosensitivity. It is crucial for Mary to report any severe or persistent side effects to her healthcare provider immediately. In some cases, such as when laboratory tests indicate bacterial resistance, alternative antibiotics like fluoroquinolones may be prescribed instead of sulfonamides. It's also noteworthy that some UTIs may be complicated by factors like hospital-acquired infections or antimicrobial resistance, as seen with other patients who have experienced persistent symptoms or non-standard causative agents such as Klebsiella pneumoniae.