Diabetes, UTI, and yeast infections

[Katyanne]

I'm a 20 year old diabetic, on insulin pump therapy.  I was diagnosed 11 years ago with diabetes.  I have good control over my blood sugar levels, with a rare high or low.  I have been to the doctor several times with urinary tract infections.  I was hospitalized a year ago with kidney stones, kidney infection, urinary tract infection, and an infected gallbladder that had to be extracted.  I cannot seem to get rid of the urinary tract infections as I have had treatment 7 times now within one year.  I drink the pure cranberry juice as I have heard it helps fight off and prevent UTI's.  Nothing seems to work.  I have also had problems with yeast infections, dating back 5 months now- which is hard to deal with as antibiotics are prescribed to help with the UTI, but flare my yeast infections.  I have had a second opinion on what is best for my overall health, but neither of the doctors I have seen are particullary concerned with what may be the underlaying problem.  I am very concerned because of the further health problems diabetics can develop.  Any advice or information is greatly appreciated.

[Vengakat]

My Daughter has chronic UTI's and until about a year ago she was getting one right after the other. Her Urologist recommended a medication called Ellura. It works tons better than any cranberry juice or pill at the store. It's been wonderful. They have a website or you can purchase it on Amazon.com. She's only had one UTI in the last year. The only downfall is the price ( $ 129.00) every three months.

[ill13632]

anyway my doctor is terrible and not giving me more than cipro- he should have given me Bactrim but refuses even though I am in pain

[ill13632]

cystex helped my pain/discomfort from a UTI, I'm not sure how safe it is though I've heard of people on it long term.  there is an azo med which may be good for interstitial cystitis
does diabetes damage your ability to urinate and empty your bladder?  maybe that's what is happening to me?

[Forum-VOL-CB]

Hi Katyanne,
My sister also has chronic yeast infections, and UTIs, too, and I know how terribly frustrating that can be. I am not a doctor, just a volunteer with a diabetic teenager, so I can't give you any medical advice. I will say that it could very well be that the yeast infections/UTIs bear no relationship to the diabetes.

Have you tried Diflucan, the medicine that stops yeast infections right away? I also get a yeast infection within 24 hours of going on antibiotics (of any kind), but if I take one Diflucan pill as soon as I start the antibiotics, I don't have any problems. It's a prescription medication, so you'd have to get it from your doc.

I would also say keep trying to figure this out, and consult another specialist. Your doctors should not dismiss what is clearly a recurring and difficult medical problem.

Good luck