Urethral Stricture: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: Urethral Stricture: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello： What you described is very mild and generally does not affect daily life, so surgery is not necessary. <br>Wishing you good health.

Urethral stricture

Hello, Doctor! I had urethritis last June, and due to work requirements, I had to hold my urine for long periods, which made it difficult for me to recover.
It wasn't until August that I finally healed.
However, after recovery, I occasionally experience pain at the tip of my urethra when urinating or during ejaculation.
When I went to the hospital for an examination, the doctor performed a cystoscopy and mentioned that there is scar tissue at the distal end of my urethra causing slight narrowing, but it is very mild and does not require dilation.
The doctor advised me to drink plenty of water and avoid holding my urine.
I would like to ask if my urethral narrowing can heal through increased hydration and urination, or if my condition requires further treatment.
Thank you, Doctor.

Xiao Han, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/31

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: What you described is very mild and generally does not affect daily life, so surgery is not necessary.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/01/31

More Info

Urethral stricture is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the urethra, which can lead to various urinary symptoms. It often arises from scar tissue formation due to previous infections, trauma, or surgical procedures. In your case, it seems that the urethral stricture developed as a consequence of your urinary tract infection (UTI) and the prolonged retention of urine, which can exacerbate inflammation and scarring.

Causes of Urethral Stricture
The primary causes of urethral stricture include:
1. Infections: Chronic urinary tract infections can lead to inflammation and scarring.

2. Trauma: Injuries to the pelvic area or urethra can result in strictures.

3. Surgical Procedures: Previous surgeries involving the urethra can lead to scar tissue formation.

4. Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as lichen sclerosus can cause urethral narrowing.

5. Radiation Therapy: Treatment for cancers in the pelvic area can lead to scarring.

Symptoms
Common symptoms of urethral stricture include:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Pain during urination or ejaculation
- Frequent urination or urgency
- Incomplete bladder emptying

Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management: Since your stricture is described as mild, conservative management may be sufficient. This includes:
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help dilute urine and reduce irritation. It may also promote more frequent urination, which can help clear any potential irritants from the urethra.

- Avoiding Urinary Retention: It’s crucial to avoid holding urine for extended periods. Regularly emptying your bladder can help prevent further irritation and potential worsening of the stricture.

2. Urethral Dilation: If symptoms persist or worsen, urethral dilation may be considered. This procedure involves gradually widening the urethra using specialized instruments. It can provide temporary relief but may need to be repeated.

3. Urethrotomy: In cases where dilation is ineffective, a urethrotomy may be performed. This surgical procedure involves cutting the stricture to relieve the narrowing.

4. Urethral Reconstruction: For more severe or recurrent strictures, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to remove the scarred segment of the urethra and reconstruct it.

Follow-Up and Monitoring
It’s essential to have regular follow-ups with your urologist to monitor your condition. If you notice any worsening of symptoms, such as increased pain, difficulty urinating, or blood in the urine, you should seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
In summary, while increasing your fluid intake and avoiding urinary retention can help manage your mild urethral stricture, it’s crucial to stay vigilant about your symptoms. If you experience any changes or worsening of your condition, further evaluation and treatment may be necessary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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