Dysuria refers to painful urination. There is usually a burning or stinging sensation when urinating. Upon examination, dysuric urine frequently appears cloudy and microscopic analysis often shows pus in the urine. Dysuria is not a disease and only signifies an underlying illness. It is often caused by an infection located in the pelvis, upper or lower urinary tract, kidneys, the bladder, urethra or prostate.MedicineNet.com: Definition of Dysuria
Fever, hematuria . (blood in urine), proteinuria . (protien in urine), nausea and vomiting are some accompanying signs and symptoms that may occur during episodes of dysuria.
Causes
The causes of dysuria are varied but is usually infectious in origin. Other causes may include:
- Urinary Tract Infection: Most common cause
- Vulvovaginitis Merck Manual: Table 2: Causes of Dysuria
- Kindey stones: AAFP: Causes of Painful UrinationUsually associated with blood in urine
- Ovarian cyst AAFP: Causes of Painful Urination
- STDs: Gonorrhea, TrichomoniasisMedicineNet.com: Definition of Dysuria
- Use of catheter Merck Manual: Table 2: Causes of Dysuria
- Candida albicans: Yeast infection<ref name="DEF">MedicineNet.com: Definition of Dysuria
- Irritants: Bath soaps, lubricants, vaginal sprays and douchesMedicineNet.com: Definition of Dysuria
Prevention
To prevent painful urination, drinking plenty of fluids is recommended.Aetna InteliHealth: Dysuria: Prevention A good gauge of hydration is the color of urine; yellowish urine may indicate poor hydration.
In women, dysuria can be prevented by frequently changing menstrual pads and tampons. Use of irritants like bath soaps should be avoided.Aetna InteliHealth: Dysuria: Prevention
For those infected with sexually transmitted diseases, latex condom usage may help prevent dysuria. Aetna InteliHealth: Dysuria: Prevention
In children, frequent diaper changes help to prevent painful urination. Avoiding bubble baths and soaps can also help.St. Louis Children's Hospital: Home Care Advice
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Dysuria, please consult your doctor.
Dysuria Support Groups
- OBGYN.net: Women and Patients' Forum: Burning urination