What is the medical term for a mild burning sensation after urination (voiding)?

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From the Guidelines

The medical term for a mild burning sensation after voiding is dysuria. This symptom is characterized by a sensation of burning or discomfort while urinating, which can be caused by various factors such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), inflammation, or irritation of the urinary tract 1. According to the AUA guideline on diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, a careful history, physical examination, and laboratory examination are necessary to document basic symptoms and exclude infections or other confusable disorders 1.

Some key points to consider in the diagnosis of dysuria include:

  • The number of voids per day
  • Sensation of constant urge to void
  • Location, character, and severity of pain, pressure, or discomfort
  • Presence of dyspareunia, dysuria, or ejaculatory pain in men
  • Relationship of pain to menstruation in women 1

It is essential to note that dysuria can be a symptom of underlying conditions such as bladder cancer, bladder stones, or intravesical foreign bodies, and suspicion of these entities is an indication for the diagnostic use of cystoscopy 1. A proper hematuria workup should be performed in patients with un-evaluated hematuria, and considered in patients with tobacco exposure given the high risk of bladder cancer in smokers 1.

In terms of management, increasing water intake to dilute urine and reduce irritation may help alleviate symptoms, and over-the-counter medications like phenazopyridine can temporarily relieve discomfort by numbing the urinary tract 1. However, if dysuria persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, medical attention should be sought promptly to rule out underlying infections or other conditions that may require antibiotic treatment or further evaluation 1.

From the Research

Definition of Dysuria

  • Dysuria is a feeling of pain or discomfort during urination, which can be caused by various factors such as urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, bladder irritants, skin lesions, and chronic pain conditions 2.
  • It is traditionally understood as a feeling of discomfort, a burning sensation, or a sensation of pain during urination 3.

Medical Term for Mild Burning Sensation after Voiding

  • The medical term for a mild burning sensation after voiding is dysuria, which can be caused by urinary tract infections or other factors 2, 3.
  • Dysuria can manifest as a feeling of discomfort, a burning sensation, or a sensation of pain during urination, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as urgency, frequency, or vaginal discharge 2, 3.

Treatment and Management

  • The treatment and management of dysuria depend on the underlying cause, and may involve antimicrobial therapy, such as sulfonamides, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, or nalidixic acid 4, 5, 6.
  • In some cases, a single-dose or 10-day course of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole may be effective in treating dysuria, especially in women with acute dysuria or urinary tract infections 5.

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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