Stricture Urethra

Stricture Urethra

Urethral stricture is a condition characterized by narrowing of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. This narrowing can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to various urinary symptoms and complications. Urethral strictures can occur anywhere along the length of the urethra, from the bladder outlet to the external urinary meatus. Diagnosis of urethral stricture typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as urethral imaging , urethroscopy , or urodynamic studies to assess bladder function. Treatment options for urethral stricture depend on the severity, location, and cause of the narrowing. Mild strictures may be managed with conservative measures such as urethral dilation or urethrotomy , while more severe strictures may require surgical intervention such as urethroplasty or placement of urethral stents.

Symptoms of Stricture Urethra

  • Decreased Urinary Stream : A reduced or weakened urinary stream is one of the hallmark symptoms of urethral stricture. The narrowing of the urethra obstructs the flow of urine, resulting in a slower or weaker stream during urination.
  • Difficulty Initiating Urination : Straining or difficulty initiating urination, often described as hesitancy, may occur due to the obstruction caused by the stricture.
  • Incomplete Emptying : Individuals with urethral stricture may experience a sensation of incomplete emptying of the bladder after urination. This sensation occurs because the narrowed urethra impedes the complete passage of urine.
  • Urinary Retention : In severe cases, urethral stricture can lead to urinary retention, where the bladder is unable to empty completely. This can cause discomfort, a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen, and an inability to urinate despite feeling the urge.
  • Pain or Discomfort : Pain or discomfort during urination (dysuria), ejaculation, or in the lower abdomen or pelvic region may occur as a result of irritation or inflammation of the urethra.

Risk Factors for Stricture Urethra

  • Urethral Catheterization : Insertion of a urinary catheter into the urethra for medical reasons, such as urinary retention or surgery, can cause irritation, inflammation, or injury to the urethral lining, potentially leading to the formation of strictures.
  • Sexually Transmitted Infections : Certain STIs, particularly those that cause inflammation or scarring of the urethra, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can increase the risk of urethral stricture formation.
  • Inflammatory Conditions : Chronic inflammation of the urethra, such as recurrent urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) or conditions like lichen sclerosus, can lead to scarring and narrowing of the urethra, increasing the risk of stricture formation.
  • Genetic Factors : Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to develop urethral strictures, although specific genetic factors involved in stricture formation are not well understood.
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