Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD. Patient Handout
URETHRITIS

About Your Diagnosis
Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder) caused by an infection. It may also be present during a bladder infection. Urethritis is caused by bacteria, trauma, or as a reaction to bath oils and bubble baths. It can be detected by testing the urine or by
examining a discharge, if there is any.

Living With Your Diagnosis
Signs and symptoms include urinating more frequently and in smaller amounts; pain or burning upon urination; a discharge of cloudy mucus (can
also be yellow-green); painful intercourse; and in older men, dribbling of urine.

Treatment
Antibiotics are needed to clear the infection. Sitz baths several times a day will help ease the pain. Nonprescription medications such as Tylenol or Advil can be taken for the pain. No special diet is needed, but fluid intake should be increased to eight glasses of water a day. Acidify the urine by drinking cranberry juice. Avoid alcohol and caffeine because they irritate the urethra. Avoid sexual intercourse until the infection is cleared. You will need a follow-up urine culture to verify this.

The DOs
• Take antibiotics as ordered until finished.
• Increase your fluid intake to include eight glasses of water per day.
• Avoid sexual intercourse until the infection is cleared.
• Avoid bubble baths and bath oils that may irritate the urethra.
• Keep the genital area clean, but use nonscented plain soaps.

The DON’Ts
• Don’t stop taking the antibiotics until finished. If the infection is not cleared, it could become a chronic problem.
• Don’t have sexual intercourse until the infection is cleared.
• Don’t use bubble baths, bath oils, or scented soaps.
• Don’t drink beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.

When to Call Your Doctor
• If a high fever develops.
• If blood is seen in the urine.
• If symptoms don’t improve in 1 week.