Causes of Urethral Stricture
Urethral stricture can occur due to various factors, including:
Inflammation
Infections or inflammation of the urethra, often resulting from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or urinary tract infections (UTIs), can lead to scarring and narrowing of the urethral passage.
Trauma or Injury
Trauma to the pelvic area, such as injury from accidents or medical procedures, can cause damage to the urethra, leading to scar tissue formation and stricture.
Surgery
Previous surgeries involving the urethra or nearby structures, such as prostate surgery or catheterization, can increase the risk of urethral stricture due to scarring and tissue damage.
Congenital Factors
Some individuals may be born with a narrow urethra or abnormalities in the urinary tract, predisposing them to develop urethral strictures later in life.
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic conditions such as urethritis or inflammatory diseases like lichen sclerosis can contribute to urethral scarring and narrowing over time.
Symptoms of Urethral Stricture
The symptoms of urethral stricture can vary depending on the degree of narrowing and its location. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream
- Frequent urination or urgency
- Pain or burning during urination
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Urinary retention or difficulty starting urination
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Incontinence or dribbling of urine