Urethritis is an inflammation or infection inside the urine tube. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or even soaps and pool chemicals, and it usually announces itself fast.

Burning is the headline. It stings the moment urine touches the opening and can linger for a few seconds after the stream stops.

Clear or milky discharge shows up. A small dot stains underwear or forms a sticky thread when you wake up.

Urgency hijacks the day. You sprint to the bathroom every hour, yet only a spoonful comes out each time.

Itch or raw skin pops up at the tip. You catch yourself adjusting boxers or feel a warm tickle that doesn’t scratch away.

The stream can split or spray. The opening is swollen, so urine forks or dribbles down the shaft after you think you’re done.

If infection climbs, the ache shoots into the balls or lower belly, and low-grade fever can join the mix.