Brief Answer:
Seems like an allergic reaction to me!

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

first of all the choice of antibiotic sounds a little strange unless it was guided by an antibiogram. Headache and dizziness could be attributed to the infection itself because besides urinary tract symptoms it may cause general symptoms as well but I doubt it's the infection. Swelling is not supposed to happen during a urinary tract infection.
The whole description points towards an allergic reaction that should be treated with a change in antibiotic regimen and an antihistamine. Corticosteroids might be needed also.
I hope I've been helpful!
If you'd like more information on your situation, please let me know and I'll be glad to answer.

Kind Regards!

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Brief Answer:
Both are safe and effective

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

rocephin is ceftriaxone which is a potent antibiotic of the cephalosporins class (3rd generation). It's been on the market for decades and it's considered a very effective and well tolerated antibiotic. Certain patients may suffer side effects though but this is not predictable.
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce inflammation and allergic reactions. That's why they are used for allergies, serious respiratory conditions, brain edema, etc. They mimick the effects of a natural hormone (cortisole). They are fairly safe to use in such cases. Side effects usually appear during chronic use.
Corticosteroids will negate the effects of an allergen and thus help with the symptoms of allergy. Please note that their effects are not expected before several hours have passed.
I hope I've been clear enough, without too much medical jargon!
If you'd like more clarifications, please use your follow-up question.

Kind Regards!

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Brief Answer:
Please read the answer for details

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I couldn't tell whether the headache is due to the allergy (it could) or the infection. Upper urinary tract infections may cause general symptoms like headache particularly when the fever is high. If the urinary tract infection is well documented then this could be the cause of your headache. Otherwise other diagnoses should be sought. Face swelling may - for example - be a sign of serious sinusitis and this is also accompanied by headache.
If allergy is the cause of your symptoms then corticosteroids can help in all symptoms (swelling, headache or anything else). The corticosteroids reduce the inflammation and thus provide relief to fever, swelling and pain.
I could not refer you to a specialist in the US because I'm located in Greece! I'm sure you can find someone close to you on the internet.
I wish you get well soon!

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Brief Answer:
Cephalosporins

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

If other potential allergens have been excluded then the drug you're taking is a cephalosporin which means that your doctors should be very cautious when prescribing both cephalosporins and penicillins.

I cannot comment more on your condition because you have not provided enough details for that. A detailed list of your symptoms and perhaps laboratory testing would be needed for a diagnostic approach. If your doctor is certain about the urinary tract infection then you have to trust him and follow his advice.

Urinary tract infections that present with fever are more serious than common infections (common cold, influenza, urinary tract infections without fever etc) and need immediate treatment to avoid serious complications or even death.

Diagnostic investigation may include a urinalysis, a culture and antibiogram and non-specific testing for kidney function (urea, creatinine). Where a complicated infection is suspected, radiological testing is warranted.

A general practitioner or internal medicine specialist should be able to help you.

If you'd like further information about the diagnostic approach, please provide the details about your symptoms (what, when, how long etc) and your testing.

My best wishes for a rapid recovery!

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Brief Answer:
loratadine, cetirizine etc

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I'm not sure which of them is considered "over the counter" in your country but loratadine or cetirizine are popular and usually well-tolerated choices. You should avoid alcohol and central nervous system drugs while you take antihistamines. One tablet per day is enough and should help but I advice you to seek assessment by your primary care physician who will be able to assess your swelling better in a clinical encounter! Remote advice is not a substitute for a real visit because I (or anybody else who answers questions) cannot examine a patient who is not present in the office.
I hope you get better soon!
Kind Regards!

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Brief Answer:
Benadryl is fine

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I know what OTC means but it could have a different meaning in different countries and I practice medicine in Europe (Greece).
Anyway, benadryl is a good choice. Ibuprofen is a different kind of drug and won't help you with allergies.

Kind Regards!

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