Whether it’s a one-time occurrence or part of an ongoing issue, many individuals have experienced—or will experience—painful urination. Dysuria is the broad term used to describe the discomfort some feel while going to the bathroom. And while dysuria feels different for every person (and in every instance), some individuals will experience a burning sensation and/or spasms. “Many describe burning with urination, or feeling like there are shards of glass in the urethra,” Dr. David Sheyn, MD, an assistant professor of urology and reproductive biology at Case Western Reserve University and a faculty member of the department of urology at University Hospitals, tells Parade.com. But why does it burn when you pee? According to the experts and the Cleveland Clinic, there can be numerous causes for why it hurts when you urinate. Here’s everything we know about dysuria, or painful urination.
What is dysuria?
As mentioned, dysuria is painful urination, or a burning sensation when you pee. Some people with dysuria will experience generalized discomfort while others will experience a burning sensation, or stinging. And for others, dysuria is more of an irritation that can cause itching.
What causes dysuria or painful urination?
There are numerous causes for dysuria or painful urination. Dysuria can be caused by infection, bacterial or otherwise. It can also be caused by an inflammation of the urethra or bladder, and dysuria can be caused by medications and hygiene products, like soaps and detergents. Below are the most common causes of dysuria.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
A UTI or urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection of the urethral tract or the urethra, bladder, ureters, and/or kidneys. If you have a vagina, you’re more likely to develop a UTI because your urethra is shorter. People who are pregnant or menopausal also have an increased risk of developing urinary tract infections. The good news is that UTIs can be treated easily—antibiotics usually rectifies the problem within a few days or less.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Many sexually transmitted infections or STIs cause dysuria, including genital herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. However, the absence of itching, burning, and/or pain does not mean you are STI-free. Many individuals with STIs have no symptoms. The best way to determine if you have an STI and/or if your dysuria is caused by a sexually transmitted infection is to get tested.
Bladder or urethral inflammation
Another common cause of burning, itching, and/or pain during urination is bladder or urethral inflammation—or interstitial cystitis and urethritis, respectively. These conditions are typically diagnosed by a urologist, and several treatment options are available.
Vaginal infection
Vaginal infections are common, particularly yeast infections. In fact, it’s estimated that 3 out of 4 women will get more than two vaginal yeast infections in their lifetime. And these types of infections can cause a wide variety of symptoms, from itching and irritation to a burning sensation when you have intercourse or pee. The good news is that vaginal infections are easily treated, with topical creams and ointments or other medications.
Prostate infection
Prostate infections, or prostatitis, occurs when your prostate and the surrounding area becomes inflamed. Since the prostate sits near the bladder, men with a prostate infection can experience burning with urination, as well as fevers, pelvic pain and back pain. Trouble passing urine can also occur, and treatment will vary — depending on the cause of the infection and the status of the condition (whether it is acute or chronic).
Kidney stones
Because of the location of kidney stones, you may have difficulty urinating and/or experience pain when you pee. After all, kidney stones are masses of hardened material located in the urinary tract. Thankfully, most stones can be passed naturally. Treatment includes pain relievers and drinking lots of water. Medical procedures may be needed to remove or break up larger stones. “Patients who have overactive bladders or who regularly experience bladder spasms can also have painful urination,” Jennifer Linehan, a urologist and associate professor of urologic oncology at the Saint John’s Cancer Institute tells Parade.com. “Oftentimes when a patient has a urinary tract infection, they will report frequency voiding but that not much urine is actually coming out. This is a spasm of the bladder and this itself causes pain.”
How is dysuria treated?
While dysuria can be treated on its own, the only way to completely alleviate the burning, itching, and pain associated with it is to treat the underlying cause. If, for example, a particular soap is causing your dysuria, you should stop using it immediately. UTIs should be treated using antibiotics, penicillin, and/or other medications, and inflammation can be reduced in a variety of ways. Creams, ointments, and both prescribed medications and over-the-counter ones can treat the numerous causes of dysuria.
Are there any other signs or symptoms which, when accompanying painful urination, could be the sign of a bigger problem?
The short answer is yes, there are other signs and symptoms you should be on the lookout for. “If there is blood in your urine and/or the pain is severe or if you are unable to empty your bladder… you should be evaluated by a healthcare professional immediately, as these could indicate a serious problem,” Sheyn says.
How can you prevent dysuria?
While some cases of dysuria are inevitable, the best way to prevent discomfort during urination is to stay well hydrated and avoid scented laundry detergents and toiletries, as these products can cause itching and/or burning and increase your risk of irritation. Women should keep their genital area clean and dry and change tampons and pads frequently, and condoms or other protective methods should be used during sexual activity. Up next: 8 Possible Reasons Why Your Pee Smells
Sources
Cleveland Clinic, “Dysuria (Painful Urination)”Dr. David Sheyn, an assistant professor of urology and reproductive biology at Case Western Reserve UniversityJennifer Linehan, a urologist and associate professor of urologic oncology at Saint John’s Cancer Institute
