How to Manage High Fever Caused by Urinary Tract Infections in Men
Experiencing a high fever due to a urinary tract infection (UTI) in men is a serious medical concern that requires prompt attention. Unlike women, men are less prone to UTIs, so when they do occur—especially with systemic symptoms like high fever—it often indicates a more severe or complicated infection, possibly involving the kidneys or prostate. Immediate medical intervention is crucial to prevent complications such as sepsis or permanent organ damage.
Seek Emergency Medical Care Immediately
If a man develops a high fever alongside symptoms like painful urination, frequent urges to urinate, lower abdominal discomfort, or flank pain, he should go to the nearest hospital or urgent care facility without delay. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes. Upon arrival, healthcare providers will likely request a urine culture to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection. A complete blood count (CBC) will also be performed to check for elevated white blood cells and increased neutrophil levels—both signs of active infection and inflammation in the body.
Initiate Intravenous Antibiotic and Fever-Reducing Therapy
In cases of high fever and suspected upper urinary tract involvement (such as pyelonephritis), intravenous (IV) antibiotics are typically administered right away. Commonly prescribed options include:
- Levofloxacin 200mg IV infusion once daily – a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone effective against many uropathogens.
- Cefoxitin sodium 2.0g IV infusion every 12 hours – a second-generation cephalosporin useful for moderate to severe infections.
Fever management is equally important. Antipyretic medications such as injectable Bupleurum (Bupleuri Radix) 2ml intramuscularly or Analgesin injection 2ml IM may be used to bring down body temperature and relieve discomfort while the antibiotics take effect.
Managing Chills and Systemic Inflammatory Response
Patients who experience intense chills along with high fever may be undergoing a significant inflammatory response. In such cases, clinicians might consider administering dexamethasone 5mg via IV push to help modulate the immune system's overreaction, reduce inflammation, and stabilize the patient's condition—especially if there are early signs of systemic illness.
Stay Hydrated to Support Recovery
Hydration plays a vital supportive role during treatment. Patients are strongly encouraged to drink plenty of fluids—ideally around 2,000 milliliters per day or more, depending on activity level and climate. Increased fluid intake helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract through frequent urination. If the patient is sweating excessively due to fever, additional fluids should be consumed to prevent dehydration and support kidney function.
Monitor Symptoms and Adjust Treatment if Needed
Close monitoring of symptoms is essential in the first 24–48 hours of treatment. Improvement should be noticeable within a day of starting antibiotics. If the fever persists, chills continue, or new symptoms develop—such as confusion, low blood pressure, or worsening pain—the current treatment plan may need to be reevaluated. Doctors might switch antibiotics based on urine culture results or escalate care if complications like abscess formation or bacteremia are suspected.
Early recognition, timely antibiotic therapy, proper hydration, and symptom monitoring are key pillars in managing high-fever UTIs in men. With appropriate care, most patients recover fully, but delaying treatment can lead to serious health risks. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.