Dysuria

Definition

Dysuria is the medical term for painful or difficult urination. It is commonly associated with infections of the urinary and reproductive systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dysuria is often a symptom of urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli.
2. In addition to bacterial infections, dysuria can be caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea and chlamydia.
3. Women are generally more likely to experience dysuria than men due to their shorter urethra, which makes bacterial colonization easier.
4. Diagnosis of dysuria typically involves urine analysis and culture to identify the causative organism.
5. Treatment for dysuria depends on the underlying cause but often includes antibiotics for bacterial infections.

Review Questions

• What are common bacterial causes of dysuria?
• Why are women more susceptible to dysuria compared to men?
• What diagnostic methods are used to identify the cause of dysuria?

Related terms

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):

An infection in any part of the urinary system, most commonly the bladder and urethra.

Cystitis:

Inflammation of the bladder, often causing symptoms like frequent urination and dysuria.

Urethritis:

Inflammation of the urethra that can lead to symptoms such as burning during urination.