I've been diagnosed with uti after having bad fever (multiple fever cycles a day despite taking acetaminophen) and some vomiting for 3 days even though the typical symptoms (burning, frequent urination, constant need to pee) while urinating subsided (and started after sex) even before the fever started. Urine analysis was positive in bacteria (no specific), nitrites, blood, leucocites and protein. The doctor who I consulted beforehand then prescribed me ciprofloxacin as treatment. By chance I got to speak to another doctor who prescribed me cefalexin. I investigated both and came to a conclusion that ciprofloxacin carries adverse effects which risk I don't feel comfortable taking (especially neuropathy). I don't like to take antibiotics in general, which makes me even more weary about side effects they have. Why one or the other antibiotic and how will the treatment differ? Am I overly paranoid about potential risks? I like to understand why doctors decide for a specific medicine but have not had the luxury of being given any explanation. Hoping that maybe this community gives me some answers. Thank you in advance.