What symptom is most commonly associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Dysuria, or painful urination, is the symptom most commonly associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs). This discomfort occurs when the inflamed tissues in the urinary tract come into contact with urine, leading to a burning sensation or pain during urination. It is a classic hallmark of UTIs due to the irritation and inflammation caused by the infection, and patients often report this symptom as one of their primary concerns when seeking treatment.

Other symptoms, such as hematuria, incontinence, and polyuria, may also occur, but they are not as universally characteristic of UTIs. Hematuria can occur in some cases, particularly with more severe infections, but it is less common than dysuria. Incontinence, or the inability to control urination, may be present in certain situations but is not a direct symptom of a UTI. Polyuria refers to an increased frequency of urination, which can occur but is not as specific or defining for UTIs as dysuria. This context reinforces why dysuria stands out as the most common and notable symptom of a urinary tract infection.