Dysuria, also known as painful urination, is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of dysuria include:
- Urinary tract infection (UTI): UTIs are the most common cause of dysuria. They are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract and multiply. UTIs can affect any part of the urinary tract, including the bladder, kidneys, and urethra.
- Interstitial cystitis (IC): IC is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the bladder lining. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including dysuria, frequent urination, and urgency.
- Anal fissures: Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus. They can cause pain and burning during urination, especially if the urine is acidic.
- Shingles: Shingles is a viral infection that can cause a painful rash on the skin. The rash can also affect the nerves in the genital area, which can cause dysuria.
- Prostatitis: Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including dysuria, pain in the lower back and pelvis, and difficulty urinating.
- Medication side effects: Some medications can cause dysuria as a side effect. Some common culprits include antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and diuretics.
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Some STIs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can cause dysuria.
- Kidney stones: Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals that form in the kidneys. They can cause pain and burning during urination, as well as other symptoms such as blood in the urine and nausea.
If you are experiencing dysuria, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and get the appropriate treatment.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Dysuria can be a symptom of a serious underlying medical condition, such as a kidney infection or bladder cancer. If you have dysuria that is severe or does not improve with home treatment, see a doctor right away.
- There are a number of things you can do at home to relieve the symptoms of dysuria, such as drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
- If you are sexually active, it is important to get tested for STIs.
- If you have any other concerns about dysuria, talk to your doctor.