Urethral Stricture
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
A urethral stricture
is narrowing of the tube that carries urine out of the body. This tube is called the urethra. Less urine comes out of the bladder as a result of this narrowing. This can cause problems in your bladder and urinary tract, such as infection.
Common signs and symptoms:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Weak urine flow or reduced amount of urine
- Feeling like you did not empty your bladder completely
- Sudden, frequent need to urinate
- Unable to control urination
- Pushing or straining to urinate
- Dark urine or blood in your urine
Seek care immediately if:
- You have severe pain.
- You are urinating very small amounts or not at all.
- You have blood in your urine after a new injury, such as a fall.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever or chills.
- Your urine is pink, or you notice blood in your urine.
- You have new or worsening symptoms.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment
depends on the size of your stricture and your symptoms, and may include:
- Antibiotics help treat or prevent an infection caused by bacteria.
- Regular, self-catheterization over a period of time helps keep the urethra open. This also helps drain all the urine out of your bladder.
- Long-term Foley catheter placement. This is a catheter that stays in place for several weeks or as long as directed. The catheter is connected to a bag that collects your urine. This bag will need to be emptied several times a day.
- Medicines may be given to treat a bacterial infection.
- Urethral dilation (widening) is a procedure that increases the size of the urethra. This is done over time for people who have had more than one stricture.
- Urethroplasty is surgery to remove the narrowed section or make it wider. Tissues around your urethra might need to be repaired or rebuilt. If this happens, a small piece of tissue from another part of your body may be used.
- Urethrotomy is a procedure used to cut or release the stricture. A cystoscope is inserted into your urethra. The cystoscope has a camera on the end and a medical tool to cut the stricture.
Manage your symptoms:
- Keep a record of your urination patterns for a few days. Write down the number of times you urinate over 24 hours, the amount, and if you have urine leakage. Record how strong the urge to urinate was each time. Your provider may also want you to record the type and amount of liquids you drink.
- Drink liquids as directed. You may need to drink extra water, or you may need to drink less. Carbonated drinks and caffeine may irritate your bladder. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
Prevent another urethral stricture:
- Avoid injury or trauma to the urethra or pelvic area.
- Practice safe sex. Use latex condoms to protect against pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Your provider may recommend screening tests for certain STIs.
- Use caution if you self-catheterize. Use lubricating jelly. Use the smallest size catheter for the shortest time possible.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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