Is Prostate Cancer Genetic?
Prostate cancer should be on every man’s mind — especially those with family members affected by it. In this blog, we look at how genes play a role in your prostate cancer risk.
When, Why, and Who Should Start Seeing a Urologist?
Many people never think about their urologic health until a problem starts. From that point, it could be a steep learning curve as you find and receive treatment.
At Golden Gate Urology Berkeley in Berkeley, California, we want to make the transition easy. We’ve prepared this primer for first-time urology patients and those who want to understand this medical specialty in greater depth.
Who should start seeing a urologist?
Anyone of any age with problems affecting the urinary tract and its components can benefit from a urologist’s care.
When should you start seeing a urologist?
See a urologist when you begin having problems related to the urinary and associated systems. You may require the expertise of a specialist.
Why should you start seeing a urologist?
It’s time to contact Golden Gate Urology if you experience any of the following:
- Urinary function changes, such as feeling the urge whether needing to go or not
- Changes in urinary flow
- Blood or cloudiness in your urine
- Infertility
- Inability to get or maintain an erection
- Pelvic pain
- Urinary incontinence
You can contact our office directly or request a referral from your primary care physician.
What does a urologist treat?
Our physicians focus on diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases of the urinary system. Involving the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, it’s a major waste management system for your body, filtering metabolic by-products and toxins out of your body.
Urologists also treat conditions of the reproductive organs since these are closely linked with the urinary system in women and men. The adrenal glands at the top of the kidneys are also part of a urologist’s specialty.
When it comes down to conditions and illnesses, a urologist treats problems such as:
- Urinary tract infections, particularly if they become chronic
- Painful bladder (interstitial cystitis)
- Bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer
- Blood in the urine
- Urinary incontinence
- Enlarged prostate and other male reproductive system problems
- Kidney stones
- Erectile dysfunction
- Prolapse of the pelvic organs
Some people think of urology as a men’s health field, but we treat women’s urological problems too.
What to expect during a urology appointment
While it can feel embarrassing to talk about urinary or reproductive issues, it’s our business; our primary concern is your wellness. We treat all our patients with discretion and respect.
Your visit starts with a review of your symptoms and medical history, including medication and/or supplements you take regularly. That’s usually followed by a physical exam to observe any body changes that may influence your diagnosis.
Blood and urine testing often provides essential information about your condition, and men may need semen testing. Diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound or computed tomography, may provide valuable insight.
Call or click today to book a visit to Golden Gate Urology Berkeley.
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