A urethral stricture is an abnormal narrowing of the tube that carries urine out of the body from the bladder (urethra).
Causes of Urethral Strictures
Urethral strictures may be caused by inflammation or scar tissue from surgery, disease, or injury. Rarely, it may be caused by pressure from a growing tumor near the urethra.
Other factors that increase the risk for this condition include:
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
- Procedures that place a tube into the urethra (such as a catheter or cystoscope)
- Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH)
- Injury to the pelvic area
- Repeated urethritis
Strictures that are present at birth are rare. The condition is also rare in women.
Symptoms of Urethral Strictures
- Blood in semen
- Discharge from the urethra
- Bloody or dark urine
- Strong urge to urinate and frequent urination
- Decreased urine output inability (urinary retention)
- Loss of bladder control
- Pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic area
- Slow urine stream (may develop suddenly or gradually) or spraying of urine
- Swelling of the penis
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms be sure to discuss them with your provider at Urology Associates.
* Information provided by MedlIne Plus