Urethral Disorders

The urethra is the tube that allows urine to pass outside the body. In men, the urethra is a long tube that runs through the penis. In women, the urethra is short. Urethral problems may happen due to aging, illness or injury. They include:

• Urethral stricture: a narrowing of the opening of the urethra
• Urethritis: inflammation of the urethra, sometimes caused by infection

Symptoms of urethral problems may include pain, difficulty passing urine, bleeding, or discharge.

Doctors diagnose urethral problems using different tests. These include urine tests, x-rays and examination of the urethra with a scope called a cystoscope. Treatment varies depending on the cause of the problem. It may include medicines and, in severe cases, surgery.