QUESTION: In reading a home medical book I learned that my problem (pain when urinating) was caused by diabetes.
However, when I bought the strips to test for sugar, they never turned positive.
Does this mean the strips are bad, or that I don't have diabetes? I still have the pain.
ANSWER: Pain or burning on urination (dysuria) is not a specific sign of diabetes mellitus, but rather a clue that there is irritation or inflammation of the bladder or of the tube that drains the bladder (the urethra).
The most common cause of this irritation is an infection.
Infections of this type are most commonly seen in women because of the closeness between the rectum and the opening for the urethra, and the short length of this passage (only about 1 millimeter).
This makes it much easier for bacteria to cross over into the urinary passages and cause the infection.
Depending on the type of bacteria, suitable antibiotics can be chosen that can readily correct the problem.
Your confusion between diabetes and painful urination is a common one based upon the fact that urinary infections are more common in people with diabetes.
The sugar in the urine makes a better growing environment for the bacteria.
You would be well advised to check with your physician to determine the exact cause of your pain.
Only an exact diagnosis can be used to choose the proper method to treat your problem, which may have a cause other than infection.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
