Have you noticed that your urine stream is weaker than it used to be? Or maybe you’re having trouble emptying your bladder completely. These can be urethral stricture symptoms.
A urethral stricture happens when scar tissue narrows the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of your body. This makes it harder for urine to pass through. Here’s what to watch for and when to see a urologist.
What Are Common Urethral Stricture Symptoms?
Urethral stricture symptoms can develop slowly, so you might not notice a problem right away.
Other symptoms include:
- Straining or pushing to urinate
- Feeling like your bladder isn’t empty
- Urine that sprays or splits instead of coming out in one stream
- Dribbling after urination
- Burning or pain when you urinate
- Needing to urinate more often
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Some men may also notice weaker ejaculation. Urethral strictures can affect women, too, but they’re much less common.
Why Does Your Urine Stream Change?
As scar tissue builds up, your bladder may have to work harder to push urine through the narrowed urethra. You might not notice much of a difference at first. But over time, your urine stream may get weaker, and it may take longer to empty your bladder.
You might also notice that your urine sprays or splits instead of coming out in a steady stream.
Can a Urethral Stricture Cause Urinary Retention?
A urethral stricture can make it hard to empty your bladder completely. This is called urinary retention. Over time, more urine may be left in your bladder after you go to the bathroom.
In severe cases, the narrowing can block urine completely.
If you suddenly can’t urinate at all, go to the emergency room. This is a medical emergency that needs treatment right away.
What Causes a Urethral Stricture?
A urethral stricture forms when an injury or inflammation causes scar tissue to develop in the urethra.
Possible causes include:
- Previous catheter use
- Urinary procedures or surgery
- Injury to the pelvis or urethra
- Infections
- Radiation treatment
- Conditions that cause inflammation, such as lichen sclerosus
Sometimes, the cause isn’t clear.
How Is a Urethral Stricture Diagnosed?
If you’re having trouble urinating, your urologist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also recommend tests to find out what’s causing the problem.
These may include:
- Urine flow test (uroflowmetry): Measures how fast urine flows when you urinate.
- Post-void residual test: Checks how much urine is left in your bladder after you urinate.
- Cystoscopy: Uses a thin tube with a small camera to look inside your urethra and check for narrowing.
- Retrograde urethrogram: Uses a special dye and X-rays to show where the urethra is narrow and how long the stricture is.
Your urologist will use the results to find out what’s causing your symptoms and decide what to do next.
How Are Urethral Strictures Treated?
Treatment depends on where the stricture is, how long it is, and whether you’ve had one before.
Your urologist may recommend:
- Dilation: Gently stretches the narrowed area to make more room for urine to pass. The stricture may come back after treatment.
- Internal urethrotomy: Uses a small scope to cut open the scar tissue from inside the urethra. This may be an option for certain short strictures.
- Drug-coated balloon: Uses a balloon coated with medication to open the narrowed area and help keep scar tissue from forming again. This may be an option for some men with recurring strictures.
- Urethroplasty: Surgery to repair or rebuild the narrowed part of the urethra. It may be recommended for longer strictures or those that keep coming back.
In some cases, your urologist may also recommend using a catheter at home to help keep the urethra open.
When Should You See a Urologist?
If your urine stream has changed or you’re having trouble emptying your bladder, don’t ignore it. These symptoms can have several causes, including a urethral stricture.
A urologist can help find out what’s causing your symptoms and recommend treatment if needed.
If you’re in Eugene or Springfield, Oregon Urology Institute can help you understand your choices. Call 541.334.3350 to schedule an appointment.