Dysuria is a medical term for the sensation of pain and discomfort when urinating. This sensation can be described as burning, painful, or another form of discomfort. Painful urination can affect individuals of all ages and genders. Treatment provided is usually tailored to the symptoms, severity, and underlying cause.
The risk of experiencing painful urination is higher in pregnant women, men and women with diabetes, or those with any type of disease of the bladder. The causes of dysuria can vary between men and women.
Causes of Dysuria in Women
Cystitis
Cystitis is bladder infection commonly caused by bacterial infection. Cystitis is typically characterized by several symptoms, including:
- Strong and frequent urges to urinate
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Frequent urination with small volumes
- Presence of blood in the urine
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic discomfort
- Pressure sensation in the lower abdomen
- Mild fever
Most cases of cystitis can be cured, especially with prompt examination and treatment. Delaying treatment increases the risk of spreading the infection to the kidneys, leading to serious conditions.
Read more: The Process of Urine Formation and Easy Tips to Maintain Kidney Health
Vaginitis
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina caused by an imbalance in the normal vaginal flora (both bacteria and fungi). In addition to burning and pain during urination, you may also experience itching or irritation in the vaginal area and changes in vaginal discharge.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a condition involving infection in parts of the urinary tract including the urethra, bladder, ureter, and kidneys. UTIs are often characterized by dysuria, frequent urination, fever, and sometimes blood in the urine.
Endometritis
Endometritis is an infection or inflammation within the uterus (endometrium). This condition may occur due to infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, tuberculosis, or a mixture of vaginal bacteria. It is also more commonly experienced after miscarriage or childbirth.
Urethritis
Urethritis is a condition in which the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body, becomes inflamed and causes symptoms such as swelling and pain. It is often triggered by sexually transmitted infections although there are also non-sexual causes.
Read more: Oliguria, when you pass less urine than usual
Causes of Dysuria in Men
- Urinary tract infection and infections outside the urinary tract
- Inflammation or infection of the prostate (prostatitis)
- Cancers related to urinary tract organs such as the bladder, prostate, or urethra
- Sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea or chlamydia
- Side effects of medications such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy in the pelvic area
When experiencing painful urination, it is crucial to consult a doctor, especially if the symptoms are persistent and disrupt daily activities. The doctor can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause and recommend appropriate tests and treatment.
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- dr. Monica Salim
Cleveland Clinic (2020). Dysuria (Painful Urination). Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15176-dysuria-painful-urination
Annie Stuart (2022). Dysuria (Painful Urination). Available from: https://www.webmd.com/women/dysuria-causes-symptoms
Mayo Clinic (2022). Cystitis. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cystitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371306
WebMD (2022). Vaginitis (Vaginal Infection). Available from: https://www.webmd.com/women/sexual-health-vaginal-infections
Cleveland Clinic (2023). Urinary Tract Infections. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9135-urinary-tract-infections
Michael Taylor, et all (2023). Endometritis. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553124/
UF Health (2021). Endometritis. Available from: https://ufhealth.org/conditions-and-treatments/endometritis
NHS UK (2023). Urethritis. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urethritis/
NHS UK (2020). Prostatitis. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostatitis/