Burning when you pee, also known as dysuria, is a common symptom that can have several underlying causes. The main reasons include:
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A very common cause, especially bladder infections, where bacteria enter the urinary tract causing burning, frequent urge to urinate, pain, and sometimes cloudy or smelly urine. UTIs need treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications like kidney infections.
- Vaginal Infections: Yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis near the urethra can cause burning during urination, often accompanied by itching, discharge, or discomfort.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and genital herpes can cause painful urination, along with symptoms such as discharge or pelvic pain.
- Irritation or Inflammation: This can be due to exposure to irritants like soaps, lubricants, or certain foods and drinks (e.g., spicy or acidic foods, alcohol, caffeine).
- Other causes include kidney stones, sensitivity to personal care products, or inflammation of the prostate in men.
If you experience burning when you pee, it is important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment. If associated symptoms such as fever, back pain, nausea, or unusual discharge occur, prompt medical attention is particularly important.
