Causes and how to stop burning sensation after urinating?

girl-having-pain-in-uterus
Medically reviewed by Dr. Asim Cheema

Key Takeaways

    • Staying hydrated helps flush out bacteria and toxins from the urinary tract.

    •  Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.

    • Practice good hygiene: Clean the genital area thoroughly but gently, using mild, unscented soap and water. Avoid using harsh soaps, douches, or scented products that can irritate the urethra.

    • Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods that irritate the bladder and worsen the burning sensation.

    • Avoid tight-fitting clothes and synthetic fabrics that can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.

    • Urinate before and after sexual activity, as this can help flush out bacteria and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.

Table of Contents

Overview

A burning sensation after peeing might be uncomfortable. This blog explains the reasons for this discomfort and burning after peeing and provides helpful advice for relief. People can take the proper action by being aware of probable causes such as kidney stones, bladder irritation, and urinary tract infections. Hydration is essential for sustaining urinary health since it aids in toxin removal. Practicing gentle hygiene, considering over-the-counter remedies, and exploring herbal options are worth exploring, but seek medical attention for persistent or worsening symptoms.

Individuals can find relief and promote their overall well-being by prioritizing urinary health and seeking timely guidance.

What is Dysuria or Pain Urination?

When you urinate (pee), you may experience pain or discomfort. It ignites! While urinary frequency frequently accompanies dysuria, dysuria is not about how often you urinate. Dysuria is not a medical condition. It is a symptom or an indicator of an underlying medical condition.

Dysuria, or pain during urination, has been a problem for humans throughout history. People in ancient civilizations noticed this discomfort and tried to understand why it happened. They studied the body and its functions to determine what could cause dysuria.

Through many years of learning and observation, doctors and scientists have discovered different reasons for dysuria. It can be caused by infections from tiny organisms like bacteria or viruses, the presence of kidney stones, or certain diseases where the body attacks itself. Each case of dysuria is unique, and doctors need to consider a person’s medical history, lifestyle, and surroundings to understand why it’s happening.

We have made a lot of progress in understanding dysuria. Advances in science have shown us that bacteria are often to blame, and the discovery of antibiotics has given us effective treatments. But dysuria still poses challenges. It reminds us that our bodies are complex, and we still don’t know much.

What Causes Burning Sensation After Urination?

A burning sensation after urination, or post-void burning, can stem from various underlying causes. Let’s explore them in detail:

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

A urinary tract infection is a typical reason for burning urination. Because this kind of infection originates in the bladder, UTIs are also frequently called “bladder infections.” This can be a  cause of continual burning after urination in females.

Additionally, Pyelonephritis, a dangerous infection that can be life-threatening if untreated, is caused when the infection spreads farther up the urinary system into the kidneys. One of the earliest indications of a UTI is frequently burning while urinating, which necessitates immediate medical attention.

The University of Southern California in Los Angeles associate professor of urology, Anne Schuckman, MD, warns that a pee dipstick test alone may not accurately diagnose and treat a urinary tract infection. According to the expert, a formal urinalysis and a urine culture are required for patients to determine whether they have an infection and the best medication to use.

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)

STDs, often known as sexually transmitted diseases, can result in burning urination. This may include illnesses including trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. These could lead to vaginal or penile discharge and burning when urinating.

It’s critical to get tested for STIs if you have this symptom, plus STI risk factors, such as unprotected intercourse, sex with a new partner, or sex with several partners.

Bladder or Urethra Inflammation

Even without an infection, it is possible to feel burning when urinating. Interstitial cystitis, a bladder inflammatory disorder, is a common cause of this. Usually, bladder irritation of this kind is chronic. The most common symptoms are typically mild to severe pain in the pelvic region and during urination. 

Additionally, urethritis, an inflammation of the tube connecting the bladder to the exterior of the body, is possible. STIs like gonorrhea are typically to blame for this inflammation, but other underlying causes may also exist. 

A urologist often makes the diagnosis. There are several ways to address the dysuria that people with these diseases frequently encounter.

Vaginal Infection 

An infection in the vagina is another cause of painful urination. Patients with vaginal infections may experience burning when urinating since the vaginal opening is close to the urethra. If the infection-related inflammation of the vulva is present, the pain experienced during urination will likely be more severe. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomonas are typical vaginal infections that result in dysuria. 

Prostate Infection 

The prostate sits near the bladder. Prostate infection, known as prostatitis, can cause slight burning after urination in males. This infection can also cause other symptoms such as fevers, pelvic pain and back pain. Healthcare providers often perform a urinalysis and a prostate exam to evaluate patients for this condition and determine the best treatment course. 

Chemical Irritants

Contact with certain chemicals, such as harsh soaps, douches, or spermicides, can irritate the urethra and cause an uncomfortable feeling after peeing.

Kidney Stones

When solid mineral and salt deposits form in the kidneys, they can eventually pass through the urinary tract. As they travel through the urethra, these kidney stones can cause intense pain and a burning sensation during urination.

Urinary Tract Trauma

In some cases, injury or trauma to the urinary tract, such as during catheterization or surgery, can result in a burning sensation during or after urination.

Hormonal Causes

When urinating, a burning feeling might also be brought on by hormonal factors. One of the hormonal explanations could be postmenopausal side effects like dry vaginal skin. This can cause a burning sensation after urinating but no infection.

Neurological Conditions

Any nerve disorder that makes it difficult to empty the bladder can make peeing uncomfortable or leave a burning sensation.

Why does it burn when I pee but no infection? Consult an Online Doctor

Best Ways to Stop Burning Sensation After Urinating? 

Although having a burning sensation after urination might be unpleasant, several effective treatments exist for this condition. The treatments are generally cause-specific.  The following are the most effective methods for easing burning:

Following are the first line of antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs that will stop urine burning:

Fosfomycin, the recommended dose of fosfomycin for an uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) in adults, is usually a single oral dose of 3 grams.

Nitrofurantoin generally prescribed 100 mg to 200 mg, is taken orally four times a day (every six hours) for a total duration of 5 to 7 days.

Trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim), Trimethoprim 160 mg / Sulfamethoxazole 800 mg (single strength tablet) – 1 tablet twice daily (every 12 hours) for 3 days is generally prescribed.

Antiviral medications can be taken for Viral infections including.

Acyclovir (Zovirax): Available as oral tablets (200 mg orally, five times daily, for 7-10 days), topical creams, and intravenous formulations.

Valacyclovir: 1 gram (1000 mg) orally twice daily for 7-10 days.

OTC pain medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for mild to moderate relief. For severe pain or suspected UTIs, consult your healthcare provider who will prescribe Phenazopyridine for urinary pain or short-term opioid use.

There is no specific medication for burning urine as it is one of the symptoms or diseases like UTI, STDs and vaginal/prostate infections.

Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) 

If a UTI is the underlying cause of the burning sensation, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the UTI . It’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure complete eradication of the infection.

Antiviral Medications for Herpes or other STIs

If a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as herpes causes a burning sensation, antiviral medications may be prescribed to manage and reduce symptoms. These medications can help control outbreaks and minimize discomfort.

Medications for Bladder Inflammation

In cases of bladder inflammation, your healthcare provider may recommend anti-inflammatory medications or bladder relaxants to reduce inflammation and alleviate the burning sensation.

Pain Medications or Analgesics for Burning Micturition

Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can temporarily relieve the burning sensation. Your doctor may prescribe specific pain relievers or recommend suitable over-the-counter options to manage the discomfort.

Medications to Dissolve Kidney Stones 

If kidney stones cause a burning sensation, certain medications can help dissolve the stones or facilitate their passage. Your doctor may also recommend increased fluid intake to promote flushing out the stones naturally.

Medical Procedures or Interventions 

In some cases, medical procedures may be necessary to address the underlying cause of the burning sensation. These procedures can include cystoscopy (to examine the bladder), urethral dilation (to widen the urethra), or surgical interventions for conditions like kidney stones or interstitial cystitis.

Urinary Analgesics for Burning Urination

Your doctor may prescribe urinary analgesics that specifically target urinary discomfort and relieve the burning sensation. These medications work by numbing the urinary tract and reducing pain sensations.

Topical Treatments to Reduce Sting After Pee

In some cases, the application of topical treatments such as creams or ointments containing lidocaine or other numbing agents to the genital area can help to alleviate the burn after urinating. These products provide temporary relief.

Physical Therapy 

For pelvic floor dysfunction or interstitial cystitis, physical therapy techniques such as pelvic floor muscle exercises, biofeedback, or manual therapy can help relieve symptoms and reduce the burning sensation. A trained physiotherapist can guide you through these exercises and techniques.

Surgical Interventions

In certain situations where other treatments have been ineffective or the underlying cause requires surgical correction, your healthcare provider may recommend surgical interventions. This can include procedures to remove kidney stones, repair urinary tract abnormalities, or address conditions like bladder or urethral strictures.

Injections or Botox

For individuals with conditions like interstitial cystitis or overactive bladder, injections of medications or Botox into the bladder muscles may be recommended. These injections help relax the muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate the burning sensation.

Urinary Alkalinizers for Burning Micturition 

If the burning sensation is caused by highly acidic urine, urinary alkalinizers may be prescribed. These medications help balance urine pH levels, reducing irritation and burning.

Allergy Medications 

A burning sensation after urination can sometimes result from an allergic reaction or hypersensitivity. Allergy medications, e.g. antihistamines, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy may be recommended for individuals with chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections. This treatment aims to boost the immune system’s response to conditions, reducing their frequency and severity.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

In women experiencing burning sensations due to hormonal imbalances or vaginal dryness, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered. HRT can help restore hormonal balance, alleviate symptoms, and improve urinary tract health.

Nerve Modulation Techniques

For individuals with conditions like interstitial cystitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome, nerve modulation techniques such as neuromodulation or nerve blocks may be employed. These techniques aim to modify nerve signals and reduce pain and burning sensations.

Corticosteroids

In cases where inflammation is the primary cause of the burning sensation, corticosteroids may be prescribed. These medications help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

Intravesical Therapies

Use of Intravesical Therapies for individuals with conditions such as interstitial cystitis. These therapies involve instilling medications directly into the bladder, such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or bladder instillations containing drugs like lidocaine or heparin. They help reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and improve urinary tract health.

Antibiotic Prophylaxis

Antibiotic prophylaxis may be prescribed in cases of recurrent urinary tract infections. This involves regularly taking a low dose of antibiotics to prevent future infections and reduce the associated burning sensation.

Laser Therapy

This may be an option for individuals with certain bladder or urethral conditions. Laser procedures can help alleviate inflammation, promote tissue healing, and reduce burning pee sensations.

Medications for Underlying Conditions 

If an underlying medical condition, e.g. diabetes or an autoimmune disorder contributes to the burning sensation, the doctor may prescribe medications to manage and control these conditions. By addressing the underlying cause, the associated symptoms, including the burning sensation, can be relieved.

What medication is used for burning sensation in urine? Ask a Doctor

What Home Remedy Stops Burning Urine?

It is always a good idea to speak with a doctor if you have urinary tract infections or any other ailment that could cause burning or painful urine.

However, you can also try some of the do-it-yourself fixes we mention below.

But remember that home remedies are not a substitute for medical attention for any illness.

Keep hydrated to get rid of burning with urination

Stay hydrated to stop experiencing a burning feeling when urinating or while in discomfort.

Getting enough water may ensure your kidneys are excreting enough urine to flush out potential urinary tract intruders. Dehydration may be the cause of the burning feeling. Therefore, consuming at least 2-3 glasses of water daily at brief intervals is beneficial.

Hot compression can help in reducing burning after pee

Painful urination or a burning feeling can be alleviated with a warm compress. The pain and bladder pressure will both be decreased by the heat. Apply a warm compress to the lower belly for five minutes, wait for a little, and then reapply. Use heat to relieve pain.

Grapefruit juice is good for pee that burns

Citrus fruit juices can treat minor urinary tract infections and a burning feeling when urinating. Cranberry juice can be consumed to aid in the destruction of infection-causing germs.

Coconut water, a remedy for stinging pee

Additionally, coconut water might be a helpful home treatment for relieving pain or burning during peeing. It contains a lot of essential electrolytes that are beneficial for maintaining the right balance of your bodily fluids.

Lemon, Helps with burning urination. 

Lemon is yet another natural treatment for uncomfortable urination. Despite being acidic, lemon juice has an alkalizing impact on the body. In addition, citric acid and lemon juice’s antibacterial and antiviral qualities prevent this issue. One lemon juice and one spoonful of raw honey should be added to a glass of warm water. Each morning, consume it without food.

Baking Soda and Burning micturition

Additionally, you can use baking soda to soothe burning urination. This alkaline substance aids in lowering the urine’s acidity, which helps to lessen the burning feeling experienced during urination and even decreases the need to urinate frequently. Additionally, baking soda supports pH homeostasis within the body. Add one teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and thoroughly mix until it dissolves. On an empty stomach, consume it. Do this regularly for about a week.

Apple cider vinegar

Various diseases can be treated at home with apple cider vinegar, including painful or burning urine. It fights an infection that produces painful urination because of its antibacterial and antifungal characteristics. Additionally, apple cider vinegar is an excellent source of enzymes, potassium, and other healthy minerals and aids in restoring the body’s natural pH equilibrium.

Mix 1 tbsp of Unfiltered raw apple cider vinegar with 1 tsp of Raw honey in one glass of warm water. Take two doses each day. Mix 1 to 2 cups of apple cider vinegar into your bath. Then soak in the tub for around 20 minutes. Do this once per day till your condition improves.

Natural yogurt helps stop burning after urination.

Yogurt with live cultures that are not sweetened is another effective home treatment. Healthy bacteria develop more quickly and are kept at bay by active cultures. It aids in preventing infections that can lead to this illness and supports a balanced pH level in the vagina. You must consume 2 to 3 cups of natural yogurt daily. Yogurt smoothies are another option. You can dip a tampon in yogurt and place it in the vagina for two hours. You might have some alleviation if you repeat this twice per week.

Cucumber is good for burning urination

Due to their diuretic properties, cucumbers may also aid in treating burning urination. Because they are mostly water, cucumbers can help keep your body hydrated, free of toxic substances, and at an average temperature, thanks to their cooling properties. Drink 1 cup of freshly made cucumber juice twice daily, with one spoonful each of raw honey and lemon juice. You can also consume two to three cucumbers daily to ease discomfort.

Coriander seeds reduce burning after peeing.

Additionally, effective home treatments for burning or painful urination are coriander seeds—these seeds’ antimicrobial qualities aid in preventing urinary tract infections. In addition to this, coriander seeds promote regular urine and purge the body’s excretory system of hazardous pollutants.

Additionally, it aids in reducing excessive body heat, which can exacerbate the disease. Two times daily, boil two teaspoons of coriander seeds in one cup of water, let it cool, drain it, and then consume.

Additionally, you can mix 3 cups of water with 1 tsp of coriander seed powder. Cover and leave overnight. Add a little jaggery the following morning and stir the mixture. Three times a day, consume one cup of this solution.

What home remedy stops burning urine? See an Online Doctor

Consult a Doctor

Absolutely! It is strongly advised to consult with a healthcare provider when you feel a burning sensation while urinating or if you have additional symptoms like frequent urination or abdominal pain. A comprehensive examination will be performed by a doctor, who may also ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform tests like a urine analysis or culture to look for infections or other underlying problems.

A doctor can provide personalized advice and guide you toward the best action to address your symptoms and promote healing.

FAQs

How long does the burning pee sensation take to go away?

If it is because of a urinary tract infection (UTI), antibiotic treatment typically brings relief within 3 to 5 days, but completing the entire course of medication is crucial. If the burning sensation is caused by irritation or inflammation, it may subside once the irritant is removed or avoided, usually within a few days to a week. However, if it is a symptom of an underlying condition like interstitial cystitis or urethral stricture, the discomfort may persist until it is effectively managed with ongoing treatment.

Can painful urination go away on its own?

Yes, painful urination can go away on its own sometimes, mainly if a mild irritation or temporary condition causes it. For example, if the discomfort is due to consuming certain spicy foods or acidic beverages, it may resolve after eliminating irritants from the body.

What is the best drink for a UTI?

Water is essential for staying hydrated and flushing out bacteria from the urinary tract. Cranberry juice, known for its potential preventive properties, contains compounds that can hinder bacterial adhesion. Opt for unsweetened cranberry juice or supplements. Blueberry juice and herbal teas like chamomile or green tea can provide soothing effects and contribute to hydration.

What happens if dysuria is left untreated?

If dysuria is left untreated, it can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney damage, and chronic pelvic pain. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent these potential issues.

Does dysuria always mean UTI?

Dysuria does not always indicate a UTI.  It can be caused by various conditions. Kidney stones, bladder infections, urethritis, and other factors may lead to dysuria. Proper medical evaluation is essential to identify the underlying cause accurately.

Why is dysuria worse at night?

Dysuria can sometimes be worse at night because of concentrated urine production, bladder fullness, changes in body positions and low output of urine at night. It’s good to empty the bladder by avoiding fluids near bedtime and getting the right medication for the underlying infection causing dysuria.

Your Doctors Online uses high-quality and trustworthy sources to ensure content accuracy and reliability. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and medical associations to provide up-to-date and evidence-based information to the users.

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