Narrowing of the urethra may be caused by congenital deformity or scar tissue from injury or infection. Initially, the bladder reacts to the obstruction by increased irritability. There is a stronger and more frequent urge to urinate , and bladder spasms or incontinence may occur. As urine accumulates, it may lead to stasis of urine and urinary tract infections . Urine backs up into the ureters and kidneys.
Symptoms are the result of urinary retention and damage to the bladder, ureters, and kidneys.
Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy occurs in about 1 out of 1,000 people. Routine rectal examination in men may show the enlarged prostate before it becomes large enough to obstruct the urethra. Rectal examination may reveal enlarged prostate. Signs and symptoms of chronic renal failure may be present. The blood pressure may be elevated.