Chronic urethritis is long-term swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the body. This inflammation continues for weeks to months.

Urethral syndrome

Chronic urethritis is usually caused by a bacterial infection or structural problem that leads to narrowing of the urethra.

Causes include:

• E. coli bacteria
• Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia and gonorrhea
• Personal hygiene products, especially feminine products

Chronic urethritis occurs in both women and men.

Images

Female urinary tract

Male urinary tract

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Urethritis Symptoms

Review Date: 09/07/2008
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)