Frequently Asked Questions
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You should consult a urologist if you experience urinary issues, blood in the urine, persistent pelvic pain, difficulty urinating, kidney or bladder stones, sexual dysfunction, or infertility. Men over 50 are advised to undergo regular prostate check-ups. Women with recurrent urinary tract infections, stone disease, or urinary incontinence may also benefit from a urological evaluation.
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Treatment depends on the size and location of the stone:
- Small stones: Often pass naturally with increased fluid intake and pain management.
- Medium stones: May require Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) to break them into smaller fragments.
- Large or complex stones: Typically treated with laser ureteroscopy or Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL).Preventive measures, including hydration and dietary adjustments, are essential to reduce recurrence.
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A urologist specializes in the urinary tract of men and women and male reproductive system, offering both medical and surgical treatments for conditions like kidney stones, prostate diseases, bladder tumors, kidney masses and erectile dysfunction.
A nephrologist, on the other hand, focuses exclusively on kidney function and related medical conditions such as chronic kidney disease or dialysis. Nephrologists do not perform surgery. -
Common early symptoms include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak urine stream
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Pelvic discomfort
- Blood in the urine or semenThese signs may indicate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or, less commonly, prostate cancer. Early evaluation is important for timely diagnosis and management.
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Possible causes include:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Bladder irritation or inflammation
- Prostate enlargement (in men)
- Overactive bladder syndrome
- Diabetes or other metabolic disorders
- Stone diseaseTreatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve lifestyle modifications, medications, Botox injections, or minimally invasive procedures.
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Erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment varies depending on the cause and severity. Options include:
- Lifestyle modifications and oral medications (e.g., PDE5 inhibitors)
- Shockwave therapy to enhance blood flow
- Hormonal therapy for testosterone deficiency
- Penile injections or prosthesis implantation in severe or refractory casesA urologist will assess the underlying cause before recommending the most appropriate treatment plan.
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A burning sensation during urination is often a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI), but it can also be caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), bladder inflammation, or kidney stones. In men, it can also be linked to prostatitis (prostate inflammation). Because the causes vary, it’s important to get tested promptly so treatment can begin before symptoms worsen.
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Most guidelines recommend starting prostate cancer screening at age 50 for average-risk men. Those at higher risk (family history or African/Middle Eastern heritage) may benefit from starting at age 45 or even earlier. Screening typically involves a PSA blood test and, in some cases, a digital rectal exam.