Overview
Urethral stricture is a condition in which scar tissue narrows the tube that carries urine out of the body (urethra). This narrowing can restrict the flow of urine from the bladder, leading to various medical issues, such as inflammation or infection. Signs and symptoms of urethral stricture may include a decreased urine stream, incomplete bladder emptying, spraying of the urine stream, difficulty or pain when urinating, increased urge to urinate or more frequent urination, and urinary tract infections. Causes of urethral stricture may include scar tissue due to medical procedures, catheter use, trauma or injury to the urethra or pelvis, an enlarged prostate, or previous surgery to remove or reduce an enlarged prostate gland. Urethral stricture is more common in males than in females, and the cause is often unknown.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of urethral stricture include:
- Decreased urine stream
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Spraying of the urine stream
- Difficulty, straining, or pain when urinating
- Increased urge to urinate or more-frequent urination
- Urinary tract infection Urethral stricture occurs when scarring narrows the tube that carries urine out of the body, leading to these symptoms.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing urethral stricture include:
- Trauma or injury to the urethra or pelvis.
- Medical procedures involving the insertion of an instrument, such as an endoscope, into the urethra.
- Intermittent or long-term use of a catheter to drain the bladder.
- An enlarged prostate or previous surgery to remove or reduce an enlarged prostate gland.
- Radiation therapy. regarding other specific risk factors for urethral stricture.
Development
The various types of urethral strictures develop due to scar tissue that narrows the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body. The scar tissue can be caused by several factors, including:
- Medical procedures involving the insertion of an instrument, such as an endoscope, into the urethra.
- Long-term or intermittent use of a tube inserted through the urethra to drain the bladder (catheter).
- Trauma or injury to the urethra or pelvis.
- An enlarged prostate or previous surgery to remove or reduce an enlarged prostate gland.
- Cancer of the urethra or prostate.
- Sexually transmitted infections.
- Radiation therapy. Urethral stricture is more common in males than in females, and the cause is often unknown.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you suspect a urethral stricture, you should see a doctor when you experience symptoms such as a decreased urine stream, incomplete bladder emptying, spraying of the urine stream, difficulty, straining, or pain when urinating, increased urge to urinate or more frequent urination, or urinary tract infection.
Management and Treatment
Complications
The potential complications of urethral stricture may include:
- Urinary tract infections: Narrowing of the urethra can hinder the flow of urine, allowing bacteria to grow and cause infections.
- Kidney damage: When the flow of urine is obstructed, it can lead to a backflow of urine into the kidneys, causing damage over time.
- Urinary retention: The inability to fully empty the bladder can lead to urinary retention, which can cause discomfort, pain, and further complications.
- Bladder stones: In some cases, urinary stasis can lead to the formation of bladder stones, which can cause pain and further urinary obstruction.
- Emotional distress: Living with urethral stricture can cause emotional distress, embarrassment, and social disruption.
- Reduced quality of life: The symptoms and complications of urethral stricture can significantly impact one's quality of life, affecting daily activities, work, and relationships. It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms or signs of urethral stricture. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent or manage these potential complications.
Treatment
Treatments for urethral stricture include:
- Urethral dilation: In this minimally invasive procedure, the healthcare provider inserts progressively larger dilators into the urethra to gradually widen the stricture.
- Urethroplasty: This surgical procedure involves removing the scar tissue and replacing it with healthy tissue from another part of your body or a synthetic material.
- Self-dilatation: In some cases, patients may be taught to perform self-dilatation at home using a special device to gradually widen the stricture.
- Medications: Medications, such as alpha-blockers or corticosteroids, may help alleviate symptoms and improve urine flow. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual case.