Reasons to see a Urologist

Let’s face it, your urology problems aren’t exactly hot topics of conversation around the dinner table. And nobody wants to hear the sound of a snapping glove as your doc gets ready to do an exam. So why see a urologist? Everyday urologists see patients whose quality of life is severely diminished due to their urologic symptoms. Often these patients have toiled with their symptoms for years before seeing a urologist who can provide care that significantly improves the quality of their lives. So here are a few reasons why you might want to see what a urologist can do for you.

Incontinence: It is estimated that nearly half of all middle-aged and older women suffer from urinary incontinence or leakage of urine. That’s tens of millions of women! Incontinence can limit one’s lifestyle, cause social embarrassment, and is incredibly inconvenient. Urologists have many tools ranging from behavioral and physical therapies to minor surgeries to help correct this problem.
Low Flow: The prostate gland is a sexual organ that secretes fluid important for sperm function. Interestingly, the prostate also has a unique property in that it continues to grow as men age. This growth, commonly referred to as “BPH”, occurs to varying degrees in almost all men and can cause difficulty with poor urine flow and incomplete bladder emptying. There are numerous over-the-counter supplements that are touted as a cure for BPH; I’m sure you’ve heard about them on the radio. But, most of these supplements have no proven benefit compared to placebo. Your urologist can discuss with you therapies that do have a long-standing proven benefit. The goal is to improve your quality of life by reducing trips to the bathroom during the day or night.
Erectile Dysfunction: ED is an extremely common problem that men face. However, due to concerns about privacy and feelings of embarrassment, men often hesitate to discuss this problem with their doctor. Many assume that nothing can be done about it, or perhaps they have tried some pills but did not like the side effects or the expense. Urologists can provide you with several office-based therapies that go beyond pills to help improve the intimacy between you and your spouse or partner.
Urologic Cancer: Have blood in the urine? Have a family member with urologic cancer? Have questions about screening for prostate cancer? Urologists are equipped to treat many cancer types, including those arising from the kidney, adrenal, bladder, prostate, testicles, and more. Prostate cancer, in particular, receives a lot of attention because it is the leading cause of cancer among men. The decision to be screened for prostate cancer can be a difficult one and your urologist can help guide you through it.

Your Portneuf urologists provide a full range of urologic care including minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgeries.