Dysuria is a condition that is characterized by pain and discomfort while urinating. It is also experienced as a burning or tingling sensation that occurs during urination. This condition is most commonly caused due to bacterial infections that occur in the urinary tract. Other conditions can also result in dysuria as one of the symptoms. Cystitis or lower urinary tract infection occurs commonly in women and dysuria is a common symptom of such infections. It develops when bacteria enters the urethra. This can occur during sexual intercourse or due to the spread of bacteria from the rectum to the genital areas. Since the urethra in women is quite short, it is very easy for the bacteria to travel up to the bladder and cause infection. Bladder infections can also occur in men and generally develop in men above 50 years of age. It is characterized by enlargement of the prostate. Upper urinary tract infections occur in the same manner, but here the bacteria travel up to the kidneys from the bladder, thereby causing a kidney infection. Such infections are linked with pregnancy, diabetes and conditions of the nerves which control the functioning of the bladder. Urethritis occurs when the urethra becomes inflamed. Sexually transmitted diseases or contact with an irritant may cause this condition. Pain during urination is common in this condition. Dysuria may also be associated with an inflammation of the vagina, termed as vaginitis.
Dysuria may occur in combination with other symptoms as well depending on the cause. These symptoms include an urge to urinate frequently, urgency to urinate, inability to control bladder movements, lower abdominal pain, presence of blood in the urine, strong odor and cloudy urine. In case of kidney infections, along with dysuria, pain in the sides and back, fever and chills, nausea and frequent urination also occurs. In case of urethritis, redness and discharge from the urethra, discharge from the vagina and increased frequency in urination also takes place. In vaginitis, tenderness and pain in the vagina, vaginal discharge and pain during sexual intercourse occurs in addition to dysuria.
In case of urinary tract and bladder infections, home remedies are quite effective in promoting healing. Drinking a lot of water and other fluids is very important as this helps to flush the infection and bacteria out of the system. A well known and effective remedy that is very beneficial in treating such infection is the regular consumption of cranberry juice. This prevents bacteria from attaching themselves to the urinary tract lining. Taking a glass of water to which a pinch of baking soda has been added is also effective in treating the infection. Practicing good hygiene and keeping the genital clean is necessary in order to prevent conditions that result in dysuria.