Urethral Pain and Burning

[Roxy103]

Hi There

I often have this pain in my urethra that is so bad that I don't want to pee but I have no choice as I can't control my bladder at that stage. It feels like my bladder is so full but it actually isn't and when I finally pee only just a few droplets come out and it hurts like hell! It burns and I could just cry. I take citro-soda and drink lots of water and after a few days it comes right. Any idea what could this be?

[David A Burks, MD]

Hi,  Any time you have burning you first need to see a doctor and get your urine checked for infection.  You also need a check for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases that can cause a urethritis. A vaginal infection can also cause a burning sensation.  If it is not an infection, and you don't respond to a course of antibiotics, you need a pelvic examination to rule out a structural problem such as a bladder stone, urethral diverticulum or infected periurethral gland infection.  You may eventually  need a cystoscopy (a look into your bladder and urethra with a scope) in the office to help rule out these structural problems.  Start with the visit to your primary care doctor who can check for the infections and STDs as a first step.  Good Luck