Urethral Stricture is a relatively common condition that can affect men of all ages. It occurs when the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, becomes narrowed or blocked. This narrowing can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury or trauma to the urethra, infections, and previous surgeries in the pelvic area. In some cases, the cause of the stricture may be unknown.

Urethral Stricture is a medical condition that primarily affects men. Urethral stricture can have a significant impact on a man's quality of life. It can cause pain and discomfort during urination, difficulty urinating, and even complete urinary retention. This can lead to other health problems, such as urinary tract infections, kidney damage, and bladder stones.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you may have a urethral stricture, as early diagnosis and treatment can lead to a better outcome.

Symptoms of Urethral Stricture 

The symptoms of urethral stricture can vary depending on the severity and location of the stricture. Some common symptoms include:

• Urinary Hesitancy: Difficulty starting urination or a delayed start of urine flow.
• Weak Urine Stream: The urine stream may be weak or decreased in force.
• Urinary Retention: In some cases, a urethral stricture can lead to incomplete bladder emptying, causing a sense of incomplete urination or the need to strain to completely empty the bladder.
• Urinary Frequency and Urgency: Increased frequency of urination and a sudden, urgent need to urinate.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Recurrent UTIs may occur due to incomplete bladder emptying and urinary stasis caused by the stricture.
• Urinary Dribbling: After urination, some individuals with urethral stricture may experience post-void dribbling, where small amounts of urine leak out involuntarily.
• Pain or discomfort: Strictures can cause pain or discomfort during urination or in the lower abdomen, urethra, or groin area. 
• Blood in urine / Hematuria: Hematuria or blood in the urine, may occur in some cases, particularly if the stricture is associated with injury or trauma.

These symptoms can also be indicative of other urinary conditions, and a proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is essential. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Causes of Urethral Stricture

Urethral stricture can occur due to a variety of factors that cause the narrowing of the urethra. Some common causes include:

• Scar Tissue Formation: The most common cause of urethral stricture is the formation of scar tissue in the urethra. Scar tissue can develop as a result of inflammation, injury, infection, or trauma to the urethra.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Repeated or chronic urinary tract infections can lead to inflammation and scarring of the urethra, which may eventually result in a stricture.
• Trauma or Injury: Any trauma or injury to the pelvic region, such as a pelvic fracture or injury during medical procedures like catheterization or urethral surgery, can cause damage to the urethra and subsequent stricture formation.
• Infections: Certain infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can lead to inflammation and scarring of the urethra, resulting in stricture formation.
• Catheterization: Long-term or repeated use of urinary catheters, which are thin tubes inserted into the urethra to drain urine from the bladder, can irritate and damage the urethral tissues, increasing the risk of developing a stricture.
• Medical Procedures or Treatments: Certain medical procedures or treatments that involve the urethra, such as repeated catheterization, urethral dilation, or radiation therapy, can cause scarring and narrowing of the urethra over time.
• Congenital Abnormalities: Some individuals may be born with a narrow or abnormally shaped urethra, increasing the risk of developing a stricture later in life.
• Idiopathic Causes: In some cases, the exact cause of urethral stricture may not be identified, and it is referred to as idiopathic urethral stricture.

Each individual may have unique circumstances that contribute to the development of a urethral stricture. Proper diagnosis and evaluation by a healthcare professional are necessary to identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate treatment approach for an individual case of urethral stricture.

At MASSH, we offer a range of minimally invasive treatment options that can effectively relieve your symptoms and restore your urinary function. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our expert urologists and discuss which treatment option may be right for you. Don't let a urethral stricture impact your quality of life any longer, take the first step towards relief now.