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    Dysuria

    Dysuria is pain felt during urination. It is often described as a burning. Read on to learn more about this problem and how it can be treated.

    Outline of human torso showing front view of urinary tract. Two kidneys are in upper abdomen. Each kidney is connected by ureter to bladder which is in pelvis. One kidney in cross section to show inside. Bladder in cross section to show where ureters enter bladder. Urethra goes from bladder to outside body.
    Painful urination (dysuria) is often caused by a problem in the urinary tract.

    What Causes Dysuria?

    Possible causes include:

    • Infection with a bacteria or virus. This can be a urinary tract infection (UTI). Or it may be a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

    • Sensitivity or allergy to chemicals. These chemicals are found in lotions and other products.

    • Prostate or bladder problems

    • Radiation therapy to the pelvic area

    How Is Dysuria Diagnosed?

    Your health care provider will examine you. He or she will ask about your symptoms and health. After talking with you and performing a physical exam, your health care provider may know what is causing your dysuria. He or she may also request that a urine test be done. involves taking a sample of your urine. This sample is then looked at under a microscope. If this test doesn’t give enough information, more tests may need to be done. Your health care provider will tell you more about these if they are needed.

    How Is Dysuria Treated?

    Treatment depends on the cause. If you have a bacterial infection, you may need antibiotics. You may be given medications to help relieve swelling and pain. Your health care provider can tell you more about your treatment options. Untreated, symptoms may get worse.

    Call the health care provider right away if you have any of the following:

    • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher 

    • No improvement after three days of treatment

    • Trouble urinating because of pain

    • New or increased discharge from the vagina or penis

    • Rash or joint pain

    • Increased back or abdominal pain

    • Enlarged painful lymph nodes (lumps) in the groin