Discomfort During Urination: Causes and Solutions

Q: Discomfort During Urination: Causes and Solutions

Hello, Miss Shy： As you mentioned, the likelihood of a urinary tract infection is quite high. <br>Without a urinalysis, it is impossible to determine the inflammation status or the appropriate course of action. <br>I recommend that, since you are still young, if you want to avoid

Experiencing discomfort during urination?

Hello, doctor.
I have never had a urinary tract infection before, but in the past few days, I have suddenly felt uncomfortable when urinating.
It doesn't hurt at the beginning, but towards the end, I feel a burning sensation at the urethral opening, and I have been urinating more frequently.
I usually don't drink much water; I mostly consume beverages, and if my meals include soup, I will drink that.
On average, I drink less than 1,000 cc of fluids a day.
If I drink too much, I feel full, making it difficult to eat my meals.
Since childhood, I have not liked going to the restroom frequently at school or work, so I have developed a habit of consuming fewer liquids.
Additionally, I dislike drinking plain water without any flavor, so my urine is generally yellow or brown.
I have tried drinking flavored tablets or tea made from longan and red dates to improve my fluid intake, but I still can't manage to drink more than 1,000 cc of water a day.

I have researched and found that my symptoms do not resemble those of urethritis or cystitis, as there is no blood in my urine, and I do not experience pain or burning sensations, nor do I have abdominal pain or fever.
Therefore, I am unsure what the issue might be.
I wanted to ask you, doctor, if leaving this untreated could lead to a more serious condition that would require seeing a doctor.
Although I don't feel a strong urge to hold my urine, I do notice that my abdomen becomes quite distended when I need to go, and I almost couldn't hold it in when I was unbuttoning my pants, nearly urinating on the seat.
Thankfully, I was at home; otherwise, it would have been quite embarrassing.
Due to the pandemic, I am hesitant to visit a clinic or hospital.
I appreciate your time in answering my questions.
Thank you.

Shy Miss, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/25

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology

Hello, Miss Shy: As you mentioned, the likelihood of a urinary tract infection is quite high.
Without a urinalysis, it is impossible to determine the inflammation status or the appropriate course of action.
I recommend that, since you are still young, if you want to avoid potential health issues in the future, you should undergo a urinalysis and change your drinking habits.
If you prefer not to visit a clinic or hospital, a laboratory is also a good option.

Reply Date: 2022/02/25

More Info

Understanding discomfort during urination can be a complex issue, especially when it involves various lifestyle factors and potential underlying medical conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing discomfort towards the end of urination, increased frequency of urination, and a general aversion to drinking plain water. These symptoms can be indicative of several issues, and I will outline some possible causes and solutions.

Possible Causes
1. Dehydration: Your reported fluid intake of less than 1000cc per day is quite low, especially considering that the average adult should aim for about 2000-3000cc of fluids daily. Insufficient hydration can lead to concentrated urine, which may cause irritation in the urinary tract and lead to discomfort during urination. The yellow or brown color of your urine suggests that it is concentrated, which can also contribute to discomfort.

2. Dietary Factors: Consuming a diet high in sugary drinks and low in water can affect your urinary health. Sugary beverages can lead to increased urination and may irritate the bladder. Additionally, if you are consuming a lot of caffeine or acidic foods, these can also exacerbate urinary discomfort.

3. Urinary Tract Issues: While you mentioned that you have never had a urinary tract infection (UTI), it is still possible to experience symptoms similar to those of a UTI without an infection. This could be due to irritation from concentrated urine or other factors.

4. Bladder Sensitivity: Some individuals have a more sensitive bladder, which can lead to discomfort during urination, especially if the bladder is not accustomed to regular, adequate hydration.

Solutions
1. Increase Fluid Intake: Gradually increase your water intake. Aim for at least 2000cc of fluids per day. You can start by setting small goals, such as drinking a glass of water every hour. If plain water is unappealing, try infusing it with fruits or herbs to enhance the flavor. Herbal teas (without caffeine) can also be a good alternative.

2. Monitor Urination Patterns: Keeping a urination diary can help you track your fluid intake and urination frequency. This can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider if you decide to seek medical advice.

3. Dietary Adjustments: Consider reducing your intake of sugary drinks and caffeine. Instead, focus on consuming more whole foods, including fruits and vegetables, which can contribute to your overall hydration. Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges, can be beneficial.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including urine tests, to rule out any underlying conditions. Even if you are hesitant to visit a clinic due to the pandemic, many healthcare providers offer telehealth services that can provide you with guidance without needing to visit in person.

5. Practice Relaxation Techniques: If anxiety about using public restrooms contributes to your discomfort, consider practicing relaxation techniques or mindfulness exercises to help ease your anxiety.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may not seem severe at the moment, neglecting them could lead to more significant issues in the future. It is essential to address your hydration habits and dietary choices to improve your urinary health. If discomfort continues, do not hesitate to seek medical advice, as early intervention can prevent complications. Remember, taking care of your urinary health is a vital part of your overall well-being.

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