Male Bladder Pain

The bladder is the organ which stores urine. The walls of the bladder expand to hold urine and contract when it is emptied. Bladder pain can be caused by several factors and is sometimes a symptom of something more serious.

About

• Bladder pain, common in women, can also be an issue for men. Pain is often most severe when the bladder is full and lessens once the bladder has been emptied. Persistent pain should always be discussed with a physician.

Causes

• The most common cause of bladder pain is a bacterial infection. This can occur when urine flow is blocked preventing the bladder from emptying completely. In men, this can also be a result of an enlarged prostate.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include a sudden desire to urinate, pain associated with urinating and an increase in urination. Urine may have a strong odor or the presence of blood. Men may also experience burning in the penis or the scrotum.

Treatment

• The cause of the bladder pain first must be identified. If a bacterial infection is found, the common treatment is antibiotics.

Prevention

• Men should be aware of their prostate health and follow up with their physician regularly. Someone who is prone to frequent bladder pain is advised to keep a food journal to check for food sensitivities.