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Urination Problems

Urination is the passing of urine from the body. Urine carries waste from the kidneys. Urine is stored in the bladder until passed from the body through a tube, called the urethra. Common problems in this system include frequent, painful, difficult, and uncontrolled urination.

Frequent urination has several causes, such as:

• drinking more fluids than usual

• being anxious, nervous, or excited

• side effects of medicines, alcohol, and caffeine

• pregnancy

• disorder of the prostate gland

• inflammation of the bladder or urethra

• a bladder tumor or stone

• vaginal or prostate gland inflammation or infection and

• urinary infection

A burning or a scalding feeling and general discomfort in the lower abdomen or urinary pathway may be felt with urination. Because of the pain, less urine may be passed than when there is no pain.

INVOLUNTARY URINATION is the lack of bladder control. Symptoms include:

• urine leaks with increases in pressure during a sneeze, laugh, lifting, or while bending over

• not enough time to reach a toilet once the urge to urinate is felt

• urine dribbling that continues after urinating or

• constant leakage of urine

DIFFICULT URINATION occurs when urine flow is decreased or stopped despite the urge to urinate. Symptoms include:

• a decreased urine stream that takes longer than usual to empty the bladder

• a urine flow that stops and starts and stops and starts or

• urination is completely stopped and requires immediate medical attention

Seek same day medical advice for bloody, cloudy, or painful urination. Always seek medical evaluation for any changes in urination patterns that do not get better within a day or two.

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