Causes in men

Since the urethra in men is about 20 cm long and anatomically lies much further away from the rectum, the mere transfer of germs from the outside into the bladder and urethra is very rare, but does occur. Just like in women, a so-called transurethral bladder catheter can be a cause for pain in the urethra. This is a plastic tube that is pushed through the urethra into the bladder, drains the urine and collects it in a reservoir at the outer end.

This is a benefit for bacterial infections and can also lead to irritation of the urethra. Another common cause of pain in this area can be benign prostate enlargement or inflammation of the prostate. The prostate is often involved in irritation due to its location between the bladder and the urethra.

As in women, certain drugs such as cyclophosphamide (used in chemotherapy), ibuprofen, aspirin and diclofenac can cause painful irritation. In addition, bladder stones or a cancer of the bladder as well as ingoing and outgoing urinary tract can also cause pain in the urethra. Therefore, frequent or even permanent urethral pain should be clarified by a physician.

Diagnosis

Pain in the urethra is usually a symptom of uncomplicated urinary bladder inflammation. In order to obtain a reliable diagnosis and to exclude other diseases, such as a complicated urinary bladder infection, some examinations help to find the diagnosis. Most important is the anamnesis, i.e. the questioning of the patient.

If, for example, mild symptoms and a rare occurrence are indicated, no further examination is necessary. Otherwise, a urinalysis is carried out, paying particular attention to blood, bacteria and inflammatory cells. In addition, an ultrasound of the bladder and kidneys can be performed.

Associated symptoms

Accompanying symptoms of pain in the urethra, especially in the case of cystitis, can be difficult bladder emptying, pain when urinating and a frequent urge to urinate, whereby only small amounts of urine are discharged. This can also lead to an unintentional loss of urine due to the irritation. If pain occurs in the lower abdomen and the urine takes on a distinct red color, a severe inflammation can be assumed. If fever or pain occurs instead or additionally in the flank region or in the scrotum of a man, a doctor should be consulted for further diagnosis and therapy.This can be an inflammation of the renal pelvis or in men an inflammation of the epididymis, which must be treated.