Urethral stricture is a condition that can make urination difficult and painful. It occurs when there is a narrowing of the urethra due to scar tissue or inflammation. If you are experiencing symptoms of urethral stricture, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Here's a closer look at everything you need to know about urethral stricture, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Common symptoms of urethral stricture include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Weak urinary stream
• Frequent urination
• Urinary tract infections
• Blood in the urine

In severe cases, urethral stricture can lead to a complete blockage of the urinary tract, which can cause acute urinary retention and kidney damage.

There are many known causes of urethral stricture, including:

• Injury. Common injuries that can cause urethral stricture include pelvic fractures, straddle injuries, and catheterization.
• Infection. A serious infection can also cause urethral stricture, including sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea and chlamydia.
• Previous surgery. Previous surgeries that can cause urethral stricture include prostatectomy, hypospadias repair, and urethral catheterization.

Some cases of urethral stricture are idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown.

Diagnosis:

Your doctor will perform a physical exam and take a medical history to diagnose urethral stricture. They may also recommend imaging tests like an ultrasound, cystoscopy, or uroflowmetry to evaluate the size and location of the stricture. A urethral stricture can also be diagnosed using urodynamic tests, which are a series of tests that measure the pressure and flow of urine.

Treatment:

The treatment of urethral stricture depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Treatment options range from conservative measures like urethral dilation and medication to surgical interventions like urethrotomy, urethroplasty, and artificial sphincter placement. Conservative measures are generally recommended for milder cases of urethral stricture, while more severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Prevention:

The best way to prevent urethral stricture is to practice good hygiene and safe sex. This process includes cleaning the genitals regularly, using condoms during sexual intercourse, and seeking prompt treatment for any genital infections. If you have had previous surgeries, injuries, or infections that increase your risk for urethral stricture, it is important to discuss this with your doctor and take appropriate precautions.

Urethral stricture is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and complications if left untreated. If you suspect that you have a urethral stricture, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and treatment are the keys to a successful outcome.

Contact your doctor to learn more about urethral stricture.