The average person urinates between six and 10 times per day. Therefore, painful urination is not a symptom anyone should ignore for long. If you experience pain, discomfort, or a burning sensation when using the toilet, it’s wise to visit a urology specialist immediately. The sooner you seek a diagnosis, the sooner you can treat the issue and achieve lasting relief. Below, the knowledgeable team at Medical Center Urology in High Point, NC, shares just a few conditions that could be responsible for any painful urination. 

Urology Specialist Shares 3 Reasons It Might Hurt When You Pee

1. UTI

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are one of the most common causes of painful urination. Although more prevalent among women, UTIs can develop in men, too, especially as they age. Fortunately, treating UTIs is fairly simple. Barring any complications or health concerns, a urology specialist will simply prescribe some antibiotics to combat the infection. 

2. Gonorrhea 

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease that can develop in both men and women. The condition is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. When it infects the urethra, painful urination is common. You may also start urinating more frequently or feel a greater urgency to “go” if you have gonorrhea. Fortunately, this STD can be treated with antibiotics. 

3. Reactive Arthritis 

Various kinds of bacterial infections can trigger reactive arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease that affects joints in the lower half of the body. One of the most common triggers of reactive arthritis is chlamydia, which is a sexually transmitted disease like gonorrhea; however, the symptoms of reactive arthritis, which include painful urination, might not arise until after you have successfully treated the infection.  

If it hurts when you pee, turn to Medical Center Urology. Serving the Piedmont Triad region, this practice has been providing attentive and personalized care to both men and women for more than 25 years. They can help with everything from prostate cancer to female urinary incontinence. Visit their website or call (336) 882-0220 to request an appointment with a urology specialist today.