Burning Sensation and Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Urological Care

Burning sensation during urination and lower back pain?

Hello, one night before going to bed, I went to the bathroom and experienced a burning sensation in my urethra after urination, along with some blood when I wiped.
At that moment, I felt discomfort in my lower abdomen.
The next day, I woke up with soreness in my right flank, and I also experienced a burning sensation towards the end of urination.
However, today I woke up with mild soreness in my left flank, and the soreness in my right flank has improved, but I still feel a burning sensation towards the end of urination.
Should I seek medical evaluation for this?

321, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/08/15

Dr. Jiang Yini reply Urology

It is recommended to schedule an appointment with a urologist for examination and treatment.

Reply Date: 2012/08/15

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning symptoms that warrant further evaluation. The burning sensation in your urethra, the presence of blood when wiping, and the discomfort in your lower abdomen and back could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) or another urological issue. Given the symptoms you've described, it is important to take them seriously and seek medical attention.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Burning Sensation: This is often a classic symptom of a UTI, which occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract. The burning sensation can be particularly pronounced during urination. In some cases, it can also be associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or inflammation of the urethra (urethritis).

2. Blood in Urine: The presence of blood (hematuria) can be alarming and should never be ignored. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including infections, kidney stones, or more serious issues such as tumors in the urinary tract.

3. Lower Back Pain: Pain in the lower back, especially if it is on one side, can indicate that the infection may have reached the kidneys, which can lead to a more serious condition known as pyelonephritis. This requires prompt medical treatment.

4. Shifting Pain: The fact that your pain has shifted from one side to the other could suggest that the underlying issue is changing or that it may be related to how your body is responding to the infection or inflammation.

When to Seek Urological Care
Given the combination of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek urological care as soon as possible. Here are some specific reasons to see a healthcare provider:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the burning sensation during urination continues, or if you notice any worsening of your symptoms, it is crucial to get evaluated.

- Blood in Urine: Any instance of blood in your urine should prompt an immediate visit to a healthcare provider.

- Back Pain: If the lower back pain persists or worsens, especially if accompanied by fever, chills, or nausea, this could indicate a more serious infection.

- Changes in Urination: If you experience changes in your urination patterns, such as increased frequency, urgency, or difficulty urinating, these are also signs that you should seek medical attention.

What to Expect During Your Visit
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely perform a physical examination and may order tests such as:
- Urinalysis: This test will check for signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities in your urine.

- Urine Culture: If a UTI is suspected, a urine culture can help identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.

- Imaging Studies: If there are concerns about kidney stones or other structural issues, imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be ordered.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms of burning sensation, blood in the urine, and lower back pain are concerning and should not be ignored. It is essential to seek urological care promptly to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and help you recover more quickly. Please make an appointment with a healthcare provider as soon as possible to address these issues.

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