NSU, sometimes called nonspecific urethritis, is an inflammation of the urinary tract in men caused by a variety of microorganisms (bacteria or viruses). Usually that are not normally associated with a specific infection. This is when their cause is not clearly identifiable as chlamydia or gonorrhoe. Most cases can be diagnosed as sexually transmitted diseases, but in some cases no infectious cause is found.
What do I do if I have inflammation of my urinary tract?
This article deals with the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of non-specific urethritis. It is not intended to be professional advice. We are not doctors, psychologists, social workers, etc. and can only explain the terms and context and refer to support services. For specialist treatment etc., please contact a help centre near you.
Causes of non-specific urethritis
The exact cause of nonspecific urethritis (NSU)is often unclear, as it can be caused by a variety of microorganisms. Possible causes can be:
- Bacterial infections: NSU can be caused by a variety of bacteria, such as Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma genitalium, Gardnerella vaginalis or Haemophilus parainfluenzae
- Viral infections: NSU can also be caused by certain viruses, such as herpes simplex–virus or human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Sexually transmissible infections: Although NSU is not necessarily a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it can often occur in men. Who are sexually active and may have other STIs
- Chemical use: Some chemicals, such as spermicides or lubricants, can cause irritation or inflammation in the urinary tract and lead to NSU
- Irritation or injury: Injury or irritation to the urinary tract from things like insertion of foreign bodies or catheters can also cause NSU
Symptoms of non-specific urethritis
The symptoms of NSU may include pain or burning with urination, itching or pain in the genital area. ALso, discharge from the urinary tract, and occasionally pain or swelling around the testicles. Other symptoms include:
- Happy bladder emptying
- Urinary secretion
- Distension of the urinary tract
- Pain on emptying the bladder
- No symptoms
- Unclear symptoms
- Pain in the urinary tract
- Pelvic pain
- Vaginal fluor
- Sexual pain
Get tested!
To diagnose nonspecific urethritis (NSU), a urine sample and sometimes a swab is usually taken from the urine. The urine sample is checked for signs of inflammation, bacteria or viruses. A urine swab is usually taken with a cotton swab or small brush and used to check for signs of typical infections.
If a smear test does not show a specific infection, but symptoms such as pain on urination or discharge from the urinary tract are present, NSU is suspected. In some cases, further tests may be done to identify the exact pathogen.
It is important that men are tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections and other infections, especially if you are sexually active and have symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment of NSU can help prevent complications such as spread of infection to other parts of the body or infertility.
So get tested regularly!
Treatment of non-specific urethritis
It is important to treat NSU as early as possible to avoid possible complications. The treatment depends on the cause of the inflammation. Often it is caused by bacteria that are not normally associated with a specific infection. If this is the case, broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy is usually prescribed. In some cases, antiviral medications may also be prescribed if NSU is caused by a virus.
It is important that treatment is started as early as possible to avoid possible complications and to promote a quick recovery. Most antibiotics are usually given orally in the form of tablets or capsules. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the type of pathogen causing it, but usually lasts between 7 and 14 days.
In addition to medication, painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to relieve the symptoms. It is also important not to be sexually active during treatment to avoid spreading the infection further. After treatment, a retest can be done to make sure that the infection is completely cured.
After treatment, a retest can be done to make sure that the infection is completely cured.
Preventive measures
Despite the general lack of clarity about this infection, there are several preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of non-specific urethritis. Here are some important measures to take:
- Use of condoms: The use of condoms during sexual intercourse can help reduce the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause NSU.
- Avoiding promiscuous behaviour: Having a limited number of sexual partners can help reduce the risk of NSU
- Regular STI testing: Regular testing for STIs, including NSU, can help detect and treat infections early, before they lead to more serious complications
- Avoiding exposure to irritating chemicals: Avoiding exposure to irritating chemicals, such as spermicides or lubricants, can help reduce the risk of NSU
- Hygiene: Good hygiene, including regular genital washing and handwashing before and after sex, can help reduce the risk of NSU.
It is also important to get tested regularly and to be examined by a health professional if you have symptoms, so that any sexually transmitted infections can be treated quickly to avoid complications.
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