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When to see a urologist
Understanding Urology: When to See a Urologist and What to Expect
What is Urology?
Urology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the urinary system in both men and women, as well as the male reproductive system. The urinary system plays a crucial role in filtering waste, regulating fluid balance, and eliminating toxins through urine. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to pain, infections, or serious health complications.
A urologist is a highly trained medical specialist who treats a wide range of conditions, from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones to prostate enlargement and male infertility. They also manage complex conditions such as bladder and prostate cancer. Using advanced diagnostics, medical therapies, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical interventions, urologists help restore normal urinary and reproductive function and improve overall health.
What Conditions Do Urologists Treat?
Urinary System Disorders (Men & Women)
Urologists diagnose and treat a variety of conditions affecting the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Common disorders include urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can cause burning during urination, pelvic discomfort, and frequent urges to urinate. Overactive bladder (OAB) is another common condition that leads to sudden and frequent urges to urinate, sometimes resulting in involuntary leakage (incontinence).
Other urinary tract conditions include kidney and ureteral stones, which are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract. Blood in urine (hematuria) is another concerning symptom that may indicate infections, kidney stones, or bladder cancer. Some individuals suffer from bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis), a chronic condition causing bladder pressure, pain, and increased urinary urgency.
For patients with urinary retention or incontinence, a urologist can offer treatment options such as medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgical interventions to improve bladder function and quality of life.
Men’s Health & Reproductive Conditions
In addition to urinary tract issues, urologists specialize in male reproductive health. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common concern, often caused by vascular, neurological, or psychological factors. Urologists offer treatments ranging from oral medications and lifestyle modifications to more advanced therapies such as shockwave therapy or penile implants.
Another condition affecting men’s health is Peyronie’s disease, where scar tissue forms in the penis, leading to curvature and painful erections. Male infertility is another area of urology that addresses conditions such as low sperm count, poor motility, and varicoceles, which are enlarged veins in the scrotum that can affect sperm production.
Men experiencing low testosterone (hypogonadism) may suffer from symptoms such as fatigue, low libido, depression, and muscle loss. Urologists can diagnose and manage hormone imbalances to restore energy levels and overall well-being.
Prostate Health & Disorders
Prostate health is a major area of urology, especially as men age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a common condition that causes urinary symptoms such as weak urine flow, frequent urination, and incomplete bladder emptying. Urologists offer a variety of treatments for BPH, including medications, laser therapy, and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
Another prostate condition is prostatitis, an inflammation or infection of the prostate gland that can cause pelvic pain and urinary difficulties. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and is often detected through PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing and prostate biopsies. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Kidney and Bladder Disorders
Kidney and bladder conditions can range from mild to life-threatening. Kidney cancer may present with symptoms such as blood in the urine, persistent flank pain, or unexplained weight loss. Hydronephrosis is another condition where urine backs up in the kidneys, causing swelling and pain.
Bladder issues such as neurogenic bladder occur when nerve damage affects bladder function, leading to difficulty urinating or urinary incontinence. Urologists can provide specialized care, including medications, catheterization techniques, and surgical treatments to improve bladder function.
Paediatric Urology (Children’s Urological Conditions)
Children may also experience urological conditions that require expert care. Undescended testicles (cryptorchidism) occur when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum, which can affect fertility later in life if left untreated. Hypospadias is a congenital condition where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip, often requiring corrective surgery.
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is another paediatric condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the kidneys, increasing the risk of recurrent infections and potential kidney damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing long-term complications.
When Should You See a Urologist?
Many people are unsure when to seek the care of a urologist. However, early intervention can prevent complications and improve quality of life. You should consider making an appointment with a urologist if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in urine (hematuria)
- Weak urine stream or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Sudden, intense urges to urinate
- Urinary incontinence (leakage of urine)
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
- Testicular pain, swelling, or lumps
- Unexplained weight loss or chronic fatigue
- Persistent lower back or flank pain (may indicate kidney stones)
If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting a urologist can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
What to Expect During a Urology Appointment
A visit to a urologist typically involves:
- A comprehensive medical history and discussion of symptoms
- A physical examination, which may include a prostate exam for men
- Diagnostic tests, such as urine and blood tests, to check for infections, kidney function, and prostate health
- Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, to evaluate the kidneys, bladder, or prostate
- Cystoscopy, a procedure using a small camera to examine the bladder if necessary
- Urodynamic testing, which measures bladder function and urine flow
Based on the results, the urologist will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your condition.
Treatment Options in Urology
Treatment options in urology vary depending on the diagnosis. They may include:
- Medications for infections, prostate conditions, overactive bladder, or erectile dysfunction
- Minimally invasive procedures, such as laser lithotripsy for kidney stones or urethral bulking for incontinence
- Surgical interventions, such as TURP for prostate enlargement, robotic prostatectomy for prostate cancer, or penile implants for erectile dysfunction
Advancements in urology allow for minimally invasive techniques, leading to faster recovery times and improved outcomes.
Book a Consultation with a Specialist Urologist
Urological conditions can significantly impact your quality of life, but early diagnosis and expert treatment can provide relief and prevent complications. Dr. Avikar Singh is a highly skilled and compassionate specialist urologist based in Westville and Umhlanga, Durban, offering personalized, evidence-based care using advanced medical and surgical techniques.
📍 Locations:
🏥 Life Westville Hospital – 7 Spine Road, Westville, Durban
🏥 Busamed Gateway Private Hospital – 36-38 Aurora Drive, Umhlanga, Durban
If you are experiencing any urological symptoms, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment today to receive expert care and regain your quality of life.
