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Urethral stricture Causes and Risks:
Urethral stricture may be caused by inflammation or scar tissue resulting from urethral or prostate surgery, disease or injury. It may also be caused by external pressure from an enlarging tumor near the urethra although this condition is rare. Increased risk is associated with men who have a history of sexually transmitted disease, repeated episodes of urethritis , or benign prostatic hyperplasia . There is also increased risk of urethral stricture after an injury or trauma to pelvic region.
Congenital (present at birth) pediatric strictures are rare, as are true strictures in women.
Prevention:
Practicing safer sex behaviors may decrease the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases and subsequent urethral stricture.
Early treatment of urethral stricture may prevent complications such as kidney or bladder infection or injury.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
A physical examination may reveal: - a decreased urinary stream
- no abnormalities
- enlarged or tender lymph nodes in the inguinal areas
- redness or swelling of the penis
- urethral discharge
- enlarged/tender prostate
Tests:
Treatment:
Dilation of the urethra may be attempted by inserting a sound (a thin instrument used to stretch the urethra) under local anesthesia. If urethral dilation is not possible, surgery may be necessary to correct the condition.
Prognosis:
Treatment usually results in an excellent outcome.
Complications:
Urethral stricture may totally block urine flow, causing acute urinary retention, a condition that must be alleviated quickly.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms of urethral stricture occur.
This is an illustration of the female urinary tract. The female and male urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra. The positioning in the body and relative size of the organs are also demonstrated.
This is an illustration of the male urinary tract. The female and male urinary tract are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra. The positioning and relative size of the organs are also shown.
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