Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common complaint experienced by many people, both men and women. Discomfort during urination, frequent urges, and burning or stinging sensations are often dismissed as minor issues.
However, if the painful urination does not go away , this condition should not be ignored because it could be a sign of a urinary tract disorder that requires treatment by a urologist.
What is Dysuria?
Dysuria is a condition in which a person experiences a frequent urge to urinate, accompanied by a feeling of incomplete urination, pain, or burning during urination. This complaint is generally related to urinary tract problems, but the causes can vary.
In some cases, frequent urination can improve with rest and adequate fluid intake. However, in certain circumstances, the symptoms can persist or recur.
Causes of Urinary Tract Infection That Doesn't Go Away
Some medical conditions that can cause prolonged frequent urination include:
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A bacterial infection of the urinary tract that causes frequent urination accompanied by a burning or painful sensation.
- Urinary tract stones or bladder stones: Mineral deposits that irritate the urinary tract, causing frequent urination and pain when urinating.
- Enlarged prostate in men (BPH): An enlarged prostate that presses on the urinary tract and causes urine to be difficult to pass and feels incomplete.
- Bladder irritation: Inflammation of the bladder due to irritants such as caffeine or spicy foods that trigger frequent urination.
- Bladder dysfunction: A disorder of the muscles or nerves of the bladder that causes repeated urges to urinate.
- Certain sexually transmitted infections: Sexually transmitted infections that cause inflammation of the urinary tract and cause a burning sensation when urinating.
Without proper examination, it is difficult to determine the exact cause based on symptoms alone.
Signs of Dysuria Require Checking with a Urologist
Immediately consult a urologist if painful urination is accompanied by:
- Complaints do not improve for more than 2–3 days
- Severe pain when urinating
- Urine is cloudy, has a strong smell, or is mixed with blood
- Fever or lower back pain
- Frequent relapses despite taking medication
- Urinary disorders in men over 50 years of age
Early examination can prevent more serious complications.
Don't Delay the Checkup
Delaying examination if urinary tract infections persist can increase the risk of the infection spreading to the kidneys or causing bladder dysfunction. Early treatment will speed recovery and prevent recurrence.
Maintain Urinary Tract Health
To help maintain urinary tract health, take simple steps such as:
- Drink enough water every day
- Not holding back urine
- Maintaining genital area cleanliness
- Avoid consuming drinks that can irritate the bladder
If complaints persist, medical consultation is the best step.
Persistent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are not a trivial condition. An examination by a urologist is crucial to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Don't hesitate to get checked to maintain your urinary tract health and quality of life.
This article was written by Dr. Dwiki Haryo Indrawan, Sp.U (Urology Surgeon Specialist at EMC Pekayon Hospital).