Dysuria is characterized by the frequent urge to urinate with only a small amount of urine, which often comes with pain or discomfort. This condition can be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI).
What is dysuria
Dysuria refers to the burning or painful sensation experienced during urination. This condition can affect both men and women of all ages, though it is more common in women.
Dysuria is typically caused by a urinary tract infection (UTI). However, there are several other factors that can contribute to this condition, such as irritation or allergies, sexually transmitted infections, kidney stones, bladder stones, prostatitis, vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina), and side effects of certain medications.
Symptoms of dysuria
The symptoms of dysuria include:
Pain when urinating
The primary symptom is a burning or painful sensation during urination, which may occur at the beginning, throughout, or after urination.
Increased frequency of urination
Individuals with dysuria often feel the need to urinate more frequently than usual, but only a small amount of urine is produced.
Dark or blood-stained urine
In some cases, dysuria is accompanied by dark-colored urine or blood, indicating a more serious infection or irritation.
Unpleasant urine smells
Dysuria can cause changes in urine odor, making it more pungent and suggesting a urinary tract infection.
Incomplete feeling after urination
People with dysuria may feel as though they haven’t fully emptied their bladder, leading to frequent trips to the bathroom.
How to prevent dysuria
Dysuria can be prevented with simple steps that can be incorporated into daily life, including:
Drink enough water
Staying hydrated helps maintain urinary tract health and prevents infections. Water aids in flushing out bacteria from the urinary tract.
Maintain genital hygiene
Proper hygiene is crucial to preventing infections that can cause dysuria. Use gentle cleansers that do not contain harsh chemicals or fragrances that may cause irritation. Women should wipe from front to back to avoid transferring bacteria from the anus to the genital area. Pat dry with a towel or tissue.
Urinate after sexual intercourse
Urinating after sex helps to prevent bacterial infections that could enter the urinary tract. However, it is not necessary to do so right away. Waiting 30 minutes after intercourse is sufficient.
Avoid holding urine
Holding urine can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and other health issues. Retained urine in the bladder can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Prolonged retention can also put extra pressure on the bladder, leading to weakness in the bladder and urethral muscles.
Avoid irritant products
Products containing harsh chemicals or fragrances may irritate the skin surrounding the genital area. Clean the area with plain water or use products formulated for sensitive skin or genital areas
If dysuria is accompanied by fever, abdominal or back pain, or blood in the urine, see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- Sean Edbert Lim, MBBS
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Annie Stuart, Stacey Jones, MS, BA (2024). Dysuria, or Painful Urination. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/women/dysuria-causes-symptoms
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Harvard Medical School (2023). How much water should you drink?. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-much-water-should-you-drink
Claire Gillespie (2023). The Health Benefits of Peeing After Sex. Available from: https://www.health.com/condition/sexual-health/peeing-after-sex
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