Suprapubic pain
What is Suprapubic Pain?
Suprapubic pain, otherwise known as bladder pain, is a sensation of sharp or acheing pain felt in the front and lower abdomen. This type of pain is related to the bladder and its connected organs, such as the urethra. The pain is typically caused by a condition, illness, or injury to the area.
Causes of Suprapubic Pain
Suprapubic pain has many causes, including the following:
- Urinary tract infection
- Kidney stones
- Interstitial cystitis
- Bladder cancer
- Urethritis
- Interstitial nephritis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Urethral syndrome
- Bladder stones
- Recent abdominal surgery
- Injury to the abdomen
Symptoms of Suprapubic Pain
People who experience suprapubic pain report symptoms such as:
- A sharp, stabbing sensation
- Aching
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Pain in the lower abdomen and bladder area
- Painful, burning sensation when urinating
- Blood or mucous in the urine
- Low fever
Diagnosis of Suprapubic Pain
Diagnosing suprapubic pain begins with a physical examination. Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and medical history. A urine culture may also be ordered to check for infections. Imaging tests, such as x-rays and CT scans, may be used to view the bladder. If bladder cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be ordered to take a sample of tissue from the bladder.
Treatment of Suprapubic Pain
Treatment of suprapubic pain is based on the underlying cause. Common treatments include antibiotics for infections, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes. Surgery may be needed for certain conditions, such as kidney stones or bladder cancer.