Urethritis is the inflammation or infection of the urethra, which is the tube through which urine travels from the bladder to the outside. Urethritis is often accompanied by bladder infection or inflammation (cystitis). It is 10 times more common in females, but can occur in all ages and sexes.
Causes of Urethritis
A number of infections and irritants can lead to urethritis. These include bacteria. The same bacterial infection that causes gonorrhea causes gonococcal urethritis. Nonspecific urethritis, also called nongonococcal urethritis, is frequently caused by infection with chlamydia. Other bacteria, such as those responsible for bladder and urinary tract infections can produce urethritis. Trauma from an injury or surgery, or from a chemical such as an antiseptic, and bubble bath and bath oils have been known to cause urethritis.
Signs and Symptoms of Urethritis
Urethritis produces fairly typical symptoms. They include painful or burning urination. A urethral discharge may be present in the form of cloudy, yellow-green mucus, or it may be watery and white, There is a frequent urge to urinate, even when there is not much urine in the bladder. Urethritis can produce painful sexual intercourse or temporary impotence in males. It may lead to dribbling of urine in men over 50 years of age.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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