Urethral Stricture
A urethral stricture is narrowing of the urethra. It can reduce urine flow and cause bladder symptoms.
Symptoms
Weak or slow stream, spraying stream, straining to void, and incomplete bladder emptying.
Causes and risk
Prior infection, trauma, catheter use, inflammation, and prior surgery can all cause scarring and narrowing.
How it is evaluated
Evaluation may include history, exam, urine testing, flow studies, and specialist referral for imaging or cystoscopy.
Treatment
Treatment depends on severity and location and can range from dilation to surgical repair.
When to seek care
Seek care for difficulty urinating, urinary retention, fever with urinary symptoms, or blood in urine.