Urine is typically eliminated from the body through a painless process. Some individuals, however, experience urination pain or discomfort. The pain can vary in intensity and may cause the sensation of pressure, throbbing, or burning. Urination pain is not healthy, and it is usually a symptom of an underlying disorder or disease. In many cases, the underlying condition is not severe and can be treated when detected early. When left untreated, some of the problems that can cause painful urination may develop into more pressing issues.
Cause
Urination pain usually occurs as the result of inflammation, infection, or other conditions affecting the organs that make up the urinary tract including the urethra, ureters, kidneys, and bladder. Conditions of the reproductive organs may also cause painful urination. Problems with the urinary tract and reproductive system can occur in both men and women, but they are most common in women. Urination pain may be felt in the opening where urine leaves the body, the lower abdomen, lower back, or pelvic area.
Symptoms
Urinary tract infections and bladder infections are the most common causes of urination pain. These conditions typically cause other symptoms including bloody or cloudy urine, changes in urine color, foul-smelling urine, frequent urination, or the sensation of needing to urinate. Other common causes of pain when urinating include vaginitis, long-term catheter use, kidney stones, and sexually transmitted diseases. In some cases, more severe problems are responsible for urination pain. Underlying diseases that can be serious in nature include kidney infections, bladder tumor, and some types of cancer.
Diagnosis
Seeking treatment for urination pain is essential. Doctors may diagnose the source of pain by performing a physical examination, collecting the patient's medical history, and performing a variety of diagnostic tests. Standard tests include urinalysis and ultrasounds. Blood tests may also be performed. If a tumor is detected, it may be necessary to perform surgery to obtain a sample for biopsy.
Treatment Options
The treatment for urination pain depends upon the cause. When an infection is present, it may be treated using oral antibiotics. Other problems may be addressed using a variety of medications or procedures. When treated, the most common causes of urination pain can usually be managed or cured. When left untreated, however, long-term problems may develop. Without treatment, patients may experience blood infection, sepsis, permanent kidney damage, renal failure, or spread of cancer. In severe cases, these complications can be fatal.