[18F] Experiencing painful urination

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the most likely cause of your symptoms is a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are common infections that happen when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra, and infect the urinary tract. The hallmark symptom is a persistent urge to urinate. Other symptoms can include:

• Burning sensation when urinating
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Lower abdominal pain or discomfort

What you can do

While you should seek care from a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment, here are some things you can do in the meantime:

• Drink plenty of water: This can help dilute your urine and ensure that you'll urinate more frequently — allowing bacteria to be flushed from your urinary tract before an infection can begin.
• Avoid drinks that may irritate your bladder: Avoid coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks containing citrus juices and caffeine until your infection has cleared. They can irritate your bladder and tend to aggravate your frequent or urgent need to urinate.
• Use a heating pad: Apply a warm, but not hot, heating pad to your abdomen to minimize bladder pressure or discomfort.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Pain in your back or side below the ribs
• Fever, chills, or fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cloudy, dark, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Frequent urination or an intense urge to urinate while passing only small amounts of urine

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.