Expert insight from an NHS Urologist: Managing common urological condition

Posted by cris magno on January 21st, 2023

You might be thinking of seeing a urologist if you have one of the following common urological conditions: BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia), prostate cancer, incontinence or bladder stones. These conditions affect millions of people across the world and there is no reason why you shouldn't seek treatment for them. However, it's important to find a urologist who is experienced, knowledgeable and whose approach is tailored to your needs. Luckily, there are some great resources out there to help you determine who would be best for you.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is commonly found among men. Symptoms include incontinence and increased urgency. Medications can reduce symptoms and may be used in conjunction with other treatments.

If you have mild BPH, you may be able to control it with regular checkups and other lifestyle changes. However, if you experience severe symptoms, you'll need treatment. The treatment should be tailored to your needs and preferences.

Some men are reluctant to go through a surgical procedure to treat their BPH. Some doctors have developed minimally invasive procedures that do not require surgery. These treatments can relieve the blockage and widen the urethra.

Men with BPH often experience the following symptoms. They can include a weak stream, an overflow or urge to urinate, trouble starting, and terminal dribbling.

Some medications, including alpha blockers and antimuscarinics, can ease the symptoms. However, some medicines can cause them to worsen. Your health care provider will prescribe a combination of these medicines.

In cases of BPH, a urologist can perform a digital rectal exam to feel the prostate and test for enlarged tissue. He can also order urine flow tests and an ultrasound.

Surgery for BPH is a relatively new option. Doctors can use laser . This treatment can be done in an outpatient setting, and a full recovery can be expected in three to six weeks.

Another less invasive treatment is water vapor therapy. It involves an instrument inserted into the urethra and emitting steam vapor.

A resection to clear a partial blockage of the urethra is another treatment. This procedure can cause retrograde ejaculation.

Overactive bladder

Overactive bladder is a common urological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes excessive urges to urinate, and often disrupts a person's daily routine. The condition can cause emotional stress and embarrassment, and it can lead to social isolation. In addition, frequent urination can make it difficult to sleep well.

There are a number of treatments for overactive bladder, but different people respond differently to treatment. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, such as changing the frequency of your bowel movement and drinking more water. Some patients may also benefit from behavioral therapies.

First-line treatments include antimuscarinic drugs, pelvic floor exercises, and bladder training. Antimuscarinics can be taken orally or applied as transdermal patches. If these therapies fail, other options are available.

Urodynamic tests can detect structural or functional issues that can be the cause of an overactive bladder. These tests are performed through ultrasound imaging of the bladder. Often, these tests can be performed with a simple office procedure. Other procedures are surgical, such as bladder surgery or urinary diversion.

Pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises, such as the Kegel exercise, are another effective treatment for overactive bladder. Patients with overactive bladder should also try to reduce irritants. Absorbent undergarments, such as pads, can be worn to prevent leakage.

Bladder relaxants, such as botulinum toxin and beta-agonist drugs, are also used. These drugs relax the bladder and stop it from contracting before it is full. Beta-agonist drugs can cause dry mouth and blurry vision.

Surgery is an option for more severe cases of overactive bladder. Surgery can be either invasive or noninvasive. In rare cases, the bladder can be surgically removed.

Bladder incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a condition in which urine leaks out from the bladder unexpectedly. This condition can be caused by various conditions. It can affect the quality of life of people who have it. Fortunately, there are ways to treat this problem.

The first step is a basic work-up. This aims to find reversible causes of the condition. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, diet, daily activities, and medication. If you are experiencing urinary incontinence, it's important to seek treatment.

Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery. Each is based on the severity of the condition. You may also be referred to a specialist if you have complicated lower urinary tract dysfunction.

Stress incontinence is the most common form of urinary incontinence. It occurs when you have a strong urge to urinate and can't hold it in for a long time. Some women experience this problem during the menopause.

Overflow incontinence is another type of urinary incontinence. It is characterized by dribbling or spillage when you're walking around. People with this type of incontinence never fully empty their bladder.

Menopause is a time when a woman's body undergoes significant change. As a result, the pelvic floor muscles may become weak. These weakened muscles can cause leakage problems.

Other causes of incontinence include prostate cancer, childbirth, and urinary tract infection. Depending on the cause, your doctor may recommend a treatment such as bladder training or medication.

In general, the goal of treatment is to control the incontinence and prevent leakage. Surgery is sometimes recommended for more severe cases.

To diagnose the type of incontinence you are experiencing, you need to keep a journal of your urination. Make sure to include the frequency, volume, and duration of each urination.

Bladder stones

Bladder stones are calcified deposits that accumulate in the urinary bladder. They can cause pain and blockage, and are usually secondary to a urinary tract infection (UTI). If not treated, untreated bladder stones can lead to infections and damage to the kidneys.

The signs and symptoms of bladder stones vary depending on the type and size of the stone. Small stones may pass on their own, but larger stones need to be broken up or removed by surgery.

Urine tests can help your health care provider make the right diagnosis. A urinalysis can detect bacteria, white blood cells, and crystallized minerals in your urine. It can also show you if you have a urinary tract infection.

Imaging tests are also helpful. An x-ray or cystoscopy can find and remove bladder stones. You can also have a CT scan, which is an X-ray that produces detailed images of internal organs.

Depending on the type of stone and your medical condition, your doctor may recommend certain treatments. For example, if you have an enlarged prostate, you may need to have a transurethral resection of the prostate. This surgical procedure is safe and minimizes urethral trauma.

In some cases, bladder stones can be removed through an open surgical procedure. Other treatments include extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, which uses ultrasonic waves to break up stones.

Increasing fluid intake can help you to flush the stones from your body. Experts suggest you drink at least eight cups of liquid every day. However, the amount you need to drink depends on your age, health, and activity level.

Avoid high-salt foods and drinks. These foods can irritate the urethra and increase the risk of bladder stones. Also, limiting alcohol and sugar-laden drinks can reduce the risk of developing a bladder stone.

Bladder cancer

Bladder cancer is the ninth leading cause of cancer deaths in men. The incidence of the disease is highest in the Western and Southern regions.

Treatments for the disease vary according to the stage of the cancer. Your doctor should advise you about the importance of regular follow-up. Most guidelines recommend that you have an appointment every 6 months for at least 2 years.