Urology: Getting Past the Discomfort

Urologic health is a subject that is often hard to discuss. However, it is important that everyone takes time to understand these issues to safeguard their health. While both men and women experience unique issues when it comes to urology, understanding the conditions of both sexes can help you stay informed about yourself and your loved ones.

What is a Urologist?

            Urologists are medical doctors who specialize in conditions of the urinary and reproductive systems in men and women. The urinary tract includes your bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra and is responsible for filtering your body of waste and toxins. Urologists also treat conditions pertaining to the adrenal glands located on top of your kidneys that help regulate your metabolism, immune system, and blood pressure.

When to See a Urologist

            While discussing urologic conditions with a healthcare provider can be uncomfortable, it is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any of the following: 

• If you have blood in your urine it can be a variety of different conditions, so it is important that you seek immediate help.
• You are urinating more or less frequently than normal, have difficulty urinating, and leaking when you sneeze or laugh.
• You have trouble getting/keeping an erection or have changes in sexual drive.
• If you have any pain or other abnormalities such as lower back pain, pain during urination, testicular pain, testicular mass, or enlarged prostate.

What to Know Before You Go

             Before your visit, prepare to discuss why you are there. We recommend bringing a list of your symptoms and any questions you may have. During your appointment, your urologist may perform a physical examination. For males, this may include a rectal exam and women may need to have a pelvic exam. Other tests performed during your visit may include image testing, urinalysis, and blood test samples.

Keeping Your Urinary System Healthy

While it is important that you talk to your healthcare provider about your urinary health, there are some steps you can take on your own to keep yourself on track.

Kidney Stone Prevention:  Drink plenty of water and maintain a low sodium and high calcium diet.

Urinary Tract Infection Prevention: Drinking cranberry juice is a common way to stop bacteria from causing a UTI. Wiping correctly after using the restroom can also prevent UTIs. Women should be sure to wipe from front to back after using the restroom.

Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention: Use a condom during intercourse to help stop STIs, but be careful when using spermicides due to their ability to cause bacteria to flourish.

Urinary Incontinence Prevention: Pelvic floor exercises or Kegel exercises for men and women can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and reduce your risk for incontinence.

Don’t just go with the flow. Get checked! Harbin Clinic Urologists are prepared to educate, diagnose, and treat an array of urologic conditions and guide you on your way to a more comfortable life. If you have concerns about any conditions listed above, talk to your primary care physician or visit https://harbinclinic.com/location/urology-rome/.