Urethritis

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Urethritis
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Dysuria, urethral discharge, itching
Complications	Epididymitis, pelvic inflammatory disease
Onset
Duration
Types	Gonococcal urethritis, nongonococcal urethritis
Causes	Bacterial infection, viral infection, chemical irritation
Risks	Sexually transmitted infections, catheterization
Diagnosis	Urinalysis, urethral swab
Differential diagnosis	Cystitis, prostatitis, vaginitis
Prevention	Safe sex, hygiene
Treatment	Antibiotics, antiviral medication
Medication	Azithromycin, doxycycline, ceftriaxone
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This medical condition can be caused by infections, injuries, or other unknown causes. The main symptom is a burning sensation when urinating.

Causes

A microscopic view of bacteria, a common cause of infectious urethritis.

Urethritis can be caused by:

• Infectious agents: Most commonly, bacteria or viruses. Examples include:

 ** Gonorrhea
 ** Chlamydia
 ** Herpes simplex virus

• Chemical irritants: Products such as soaps, lotions, and spermicides can cause chemical-induced urethritis.
• Physical injuries: These can occur due to instrumentation like catheterization or surgery.

Symptoms

Patients with urethritis may experience:

• Burning sensation during urination
• Increased urge to urinate
• Discharge from the urethra
• Itching or irritation at the urethral opening

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation and laboratory tests, including:

• Urine tests: To check for signs of infection.
• Swab tests: A sample from the urethra can be tested for bacteria or viruses.

Treatment

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed for bacterial urethritis.

• Antibiotics: If bacteria are the cause.
• Antiviral medication: For viral infections.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce pain and inflammation.

Patients are advised to refrain from sexual activity until treatment is complete and symptoms have resolved.

Prevention

Prevention strategies include:

• Practicing safe sex, including the use of condoms.
• Avoiding irritating products.
• Proper hygiene practices.

See Also

• Bladder infection
• Urinary tract infection
• Cystitis

External Links

• Mayo Clinic: Urethritis

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