Almost half of men ages 55 and over experience painful urination, or dysuria. Dysuria is any pain or discomfort when you urinate and not necessarily how often you feel the need to go. However, urinary frequency often happens together with dysuria. Dysuria isn’t a diagnosis but rather a symptom that may be caused by anything that leads to inflammation either in the bladder or the urethral mucosa. 

If you experience a burning sensation while urinating, it’s best to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. But it helps to understand the different causes of dysuria first. 

So what are the different causes of painful urination in men's health? How do these causes occur?

Keep reading to learn more.

1. Urinary Tract Infections

Dysuria in men is most often caused by urinary tract infections. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) occur when an excess amount of bacteria builds up in the urinary tract. Common symptoms include:

• Painful sensation while urinating
• Frequent urge to use the restroom
• Cloudy urine
• Red, bright pink, or brown urine
• Passing small amounts of urine at a time

Diabetic patients and those with bladder illnesses are most prone to urinary tract infections. Luckily, most UTIs are cured within 2-3 days of starting proper treatment. 

2. Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) infect and inflame the urinary tract, causing a burning sensation when urinating. There are many possible STIs that could cause this pain, including:

• Chlamydia
• Genital herpes
• Gonorrhea
• Presence of abnormal discharge

Patients could also experience blisters and sores in the genital area and itching. The range of symptoms will depend on the disease. STIs are typically transmitted through sexual contact — namely, through unprotected sex which leads to bodily fluid transmission from an infected person.

Depending on the infection, the recovery process and treatment required may differ. Every sexually active person is recommended to get an STI checkup once a year. This way, potential STI patients can get the treatment they need as quickly as possible.

3. Prostate Infections

Prostate infections exhibit symptoms similar to UTIs, especially since the same kind of bacteria causes both. But prostate infections are more common, affecting about 50% of men. Symptoms of prostate infections include:

• Painful sensation while urinating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Body aches
• Lower back/abdomen pain
• Fever and chills

Those who have already suffered a prostate infection are prone to experiencing once in the future, as are HIV/AIDS patients and those who currently have UTIs. In most cases, antibiotic treatment will effectively cure the infection. 

4. Kidney Infections

Kidney stones are hard, mineral-based deposits that form inside the kidneys. They're also associated with urinary tract infections and can even complicate them. Symptoms of kidney stones include:

• Painful sensation while urinating
• Pain in the lower abdomen and groin
• Sharp pain in the sides and back
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Nausea and vomiting

There are many risk factors for kidney stones, ranging anywhere from genetics to repeated urinary tract infections. Attempting to pass them through the urinary tract can lead to a painful sensation while urinating. The best course of treatment is to see a medical professional who will dissolve the kidney stones or offer medications for them.

Painful Urination in Men's Health

Painful urination is relatively common among men. But it must be addressed immediately to prevent symptoms from worsening.

At Complete Care Medical, we're dedicated to helping improve and maintain men's health. That's why we offer patients great medications and medical supplies. Contact us today if you want our help to maintain your health!