Shedding light on the UTI Symptoms in Men

Recognizing the UTI symptoms in men is equally important as knowing the causes and treatment.

Understanding the specific signs of a UTI can help men seek timely medical attention, receive appropriate treatment, and prevent complications.

While UTIs are more commonly associated with women, men are also susceptible to these infections. 

However, due to anatomical differences, UTI symptoms in men may vary from those experienced by women. 

It is essential for men to be aware of these symptoms and take prompt action when they occur.

UTIs can lead to more severe complications, such as kidney infections, if left untreated.

In this article, we will cover both common and uncommon symptoms associated with UTI symptoms in men.

Common Symptoms of UTI in Men

Here are some common symptoms associated with UTI in men.

Frequent urge to urinate

One of the common symptoms of a UTI in men is a frequent urge to urinate.

This symptom is often accompanied by a feeling of urgency, where the individual feels the need to urinate immediately; however, only a tiny amount of urine is passed when they urinate. 

Pain or discomfort during urination

Pain or discomfort during urination is the most common symptom of a UTI. 

This pain is typically experienced as a burning sensation that occurs during or immediately after urination. 

This pain and discomfort can also be caused by Dysuria.

Dysuria is the sensation of pain and/or burning, stinging, or itching of the urethra or urethral lining associated with urination.

In a few cases, the pain can be severe, making it difficult and uncomfortable to pass urine.

Cloudy or bloody urine

UTIs in men may also result in changes in the appearance of urine. 

Cloudy urine is a standard indicator of an infection in the urinary tract. 

It can also occur due to white blood cells, bacteria, and other debris in the urine. 

Additionally, blood in the urine, known as Hematuria, may be observed in some cases. 

Foul-smelling urine

Another symptom of a UTI in men is foul-smelling urine. 

The presence of bacteria in the urinary tract can lead to the production of strong or unpleasant-smelling urine. 

Difficulty emptying the bladder

In some cases, a UTI in men can cause urinary incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder. 

UTI can affect the muscles and nerves involved in bladder control. 

It can lead to involuntary leakage of urine or the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. 

Pelvic pain or pressure

Pelvic pain or pressure can be another additional symptom of a UTI in men. 

The infection and inflammation in the urinary tract can cause discomfort or a sensation of pressure in the pelvic area. 

This pain may be dull or achy and can vary in intensity. 

Also Read: UTI Symptoms But No Bacteria in Urine: Understanding Uncommon UTI

Additional symptoms to watch out for

In addition to the typical UTI symptoms in men, there are additional symptoms that men should watch out for.

While these symptoms are less common, they can sometimes indicate a more severe infection or potential complications. 

Let’s explore these additional UTI symptoms in men.

Epididymitis

Epididymis is a coiled tube behind each testicle.

In cases of infection due to UTI, retrograde flow of urine or stagnation of urine along the genitourinary tract results in infection of the Epididymis, called Epididymitis.

It can lead to discomfort, tenderness, testicular pain, or swelling in one or both testicles. 

This symptom may occur due to the proximity of the testicles to the urinary tract. 

Nausea or Malaise

Nausea or Malaise are symptoms associated with a UTI in men. 

The body’s immune response to the infection can increase energy expenditure and systemic inflammation, leading to tiredness and weakness. 

The infection can also disrupt standard sleep patterns, further contributing to nausea. 

The psychological impact of dealing with a UTI, such as stress and anxiety, can also contribute to a general sense of malaise.

Also Recommended: Can Male Sperm Cause UTI in Females?

Urinary retention

In rare cases, UTIs in men can lead to urinary retention, which is the inability to urinate. 

This occurs when the infection affects the muscles and nerves involved in bladder control, disrupting the normal urination process. 

Urinary retention can cause discomfort, a feeling of fullness in the bladder, and the inability to empty the bladder. 

The inability to urinate despite the urge to do so is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

Fever or chills

When a UTI progresses beyond the bladder and reaches the kidneys, it can lead to more severe symptoms, including fever and chills. 

The body’s immune response to the infection triggers an elevation in body temperature, resulting in fever. 

Chills often accompany fever and are characterized by shivering and feeling cold despite rising body temperature. 

Conclusion

While UTI symptoms in men, such as frequent urination, pain during urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine, are well-known, there are additional symptoms that men should be aware of. 

These include testicular pain or swelling, rectal pain or discomfort, pelvic pain or pressure, and urinary retention.

Although less common, additional symptoms can indicate a more severe infection or potential complications to other parts of the body. 

Overall, understanding the full range of symptoms associated with UTIs in men empowers individuals to take proactive measures in managing their health and seeking appropriate medical care when necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

• nhs.uk
• health.harvard.edu