Urology Overview
Urology is a surgical specialty that focuses on conditions that affect the genito-urinary tract in men, women and children, and diseases that affect the reproductive system. These conditions range from peeing too much or too little to being unable to father a child.
A similar specialty to urology is the medical specialty of nephrology. The main difference is that urology is a surgical specialty while nephrology focuses on medical management of diseases of the renal system.
- Kidney, Bladder and Prostate Cancer
- Urinary Incontinence
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Kidney and Bladder Stones
- Interstitial Cystitis ( Painful Bladder)
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Benefits Specialty Care
A urologist can diagnose and treat many kinds of urinary system disorders. Some urologists might practice without doing surgery, but all urologists are trained as surgeons. Below are some common symptoms that would mean you need to see the urologist;
- Trouble urinating (peeing), including getting started or having a strong flow of urine, pain, cloudy urine or blood in the urine.
- Changes in urination, like frequent urination or feeling like you always have to go.
- Trouble getting or keeping an erection.
- Infertility.
- A feeling that something is falling down into your vagina or heaviness in that area.
- Pelvic pain or pain in the lower abdomen.
- Urinating when you don’t want to, like at night or when you sneeze, laugh or exercise.
Health Tips & Info
The kidneys are a very important set of organs that help to remove waste substance from the body. No one can live without a functional kidney for long. If you suspect you have any problem related to the urinary system seek healthcare as soon as possible. Many conditions that are mild and avoidable can complicate into more serious conditions of the kidney. Self medication with over the counter medications may not be helpful and can sometimes even cause more harm than help.
The most common cause of a painful and burning sensation while you are urinating is inflammation of the urethra which is usually caused by a urinary track infection. You must see a doctor to get diagnosed and treated with the correct medication quickly.
Not really. Any medical doctor is trained to diagnose and treat most conditions. The doctor will be able to refer you to a urologist when the need is apparent.
