Quick answer
What could pain when peeing mean?
Pain when peeing, known medically as dysuria, is a burning or stinging feeling caused by inflammation of the bladder or urethra — most often a urinary tract infection (UTI). See a GP the same day, as most bacterial UTIs need antibiotics. A fever with back pain may mean a kidney infection.
Understanding pain when peeing
Pain when peeing, known medically as dysuria, is usually caused by inflammation of the bladder or the urethra. Prompt treatment matters, because it stops an infection from spreading.
Common causes of pain when peeing
The most common cause is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Sexually transmitted infections, thrush and urinary stones can also cause pain when peeing. In men, prostatitis — inflammation of the prostate gland — is another possible cause.
Self-care for pain when peeing
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid anything you know irritates the area. Even with good self-care, do not delay a medical review, because most causes need treatment.
When to get urgent help for pain when peeing
A fever with pain in your loin (the side of your lower back) suggests a kidney infection, which needs urgent antibiotics. Being unable to pass urine at all is an emergency — call 999 or go to A&E.
Common questions about pain when peeing
- What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?
- Typical UTI symptoms include a burning feeling when you pee, needing to pee more often, cloudy urine and an ache in the lower tummy. See a GP the same day if you develop these symptoms.
- Do I need antibiotics for a urinary tract infection?
- Most bacterial UTIs need antibiotics to clear the infection. In some areas of the UK, pharmacist-led schemes allow you to get treatment without seeing a GP first.
- Can men get urinary tract infections?
- UTIs are less common in men, so any man with pain when peeing should always be assessed by a doctor. The assessment usually includes checking the prostate and the kidneys.
- Can a sexually transmitted infection cause pain when peeing?
- Yes — chlamydia and other sexually transmitted infections can cause pain when peeing. Get tested if there is any chance you have been at risk.