Taking charge of your health might seem daunting, but it could also be incredibly overpowering. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms, be it with your prostate, bladder, or urine that are becoming frequent or concerning, it might be time to consult a urologist. A urologist Mount Vernon is a doctor who specializes in conditions of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system. If you are wondering when to see a urologist, continue reading. Here are 5 common signs of conditions that a urologist can effectively treat.
1. Blood in Your Urine
Discovering blood in the urine could be a sign that something is wrong with your kidneys or another area of your urinary tract, and it should never be dismissed. Blood in urine could be a warning sign of bladder or kidney cancer, bladder infection, kidney stones, or an enlarged prostate. As blood in the urine is more probably a sign of an underlying condition, your urologist will suggest care solutions based on the inherent cause.
2. Testicular Lumps or Pain
You should see a urologist if you notice an abnormal lump or experience testicular discomfort. These issues are both symptoms of scrotal mass, which a professional should assess. While most scrotal masses are harmless and need no treatments, some might indicate more serious health concerns like testicular cancer. Luckily, if identified early, testicular cancer is curable.
3. Enlarged Prostate
The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra. Once enlarged, the prostate presses on the urethra and blocks the passage of urine. Thus, you are likely to suffer symptoms like difficulty urinating, the urge to urinate often, and the feeling of your bladder being full, even when it is empty. There are various surgical and minimally-intrusive solutions your urologist can suggest to provide you relief from these symptoms.
4. Painful Urinating
If you are experiencing burning, stinging, or pain when urinating, there is a likelihood that you have an infection in your urinary tract. Another typical cause of uncomfortable urination is prostatitis, which entails prostate gland swelling. A urologist can establish the actual cause and suggest targeted treatment solutions to relieve pain.
5. Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is involuntary urine leakage. While this condition is common and nothing to be embarrassed about, it could be troublesome if the incontinence disrupts your everyday life. There are various types of urinary incontinence, and it is crucial to see a urologist to determine what type you are experiencing. From there, your urologist will suggest treatment based on your symptoms.
6. Sexual Issues
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to attain or maintain an erect penis. ED is one of the most prevalent sexual issues for men, particularly as they age. Numerous men experience occasional ED because of stress. However, constant erectile dysfunction requires professional attention. Thankfully, numerous safe and effective care solutions could help you manage your symptoms during sexual activity.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms highlighted above, you should be proactive and see the urologist. There is no reason to live with embarrassing or painful symptoms, particularly when they could indicate a more serious condition. Urologists are knowledgeable at diagnosing and treating conditions associated with the urinary tract and reproductive system. Your family physician can address some mild urological concerns, but if your symptoms are more severe or fail to disappear, consult a urologist.