A swollen urethra in males can be a sign of various conditions, and it's crucial to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause.
Possible Causes of Urethra Swelling:
- Urethritis: This is an inflammation of the urethra, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea. Symptoms can include pain or burning during urination, discharge, and a swollen urethra.
- Urethral Stricture: This is a narrowing of the urethra, which can be caused by injury, infection, or surgery. Symptoms include difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, and a swollen urethra.
- Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause swelling in the urethra. Symptoms include pain in the pelvic area, fever, and difficulty urinating.
- Trauma: Physical trauma to the urethra, such as from a blow to the groin, can cause swelling and bruising.
- Urethral Stones: Kidney stones that travel to the urethra can cause blockage and swelling.
- Other Conditions: Less common causes include certain medications, allergic reactions, and certain types of cancer.
Seeking Medical Attention:
If you experience a swollen urethra, it's essential to see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment. They will likely ask about your symptoms, medical history, and sexual activity. They may perform a physical exam, urine test, and other tests to determine the cause of the swelling.
Treatment:
Treatment for a swollen urethra depends on the underlying cause.
- Antibiotics: For infections like urethritis, antibiotics are typically prescribed.
- Urethral Dilation: For urethral strictures, a procedure called urethral dilation may be performed to widen the urethra.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the swelling.
It's important to remember that self-treating a swollen urethra can be dangerous. Always seek professional medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
