A urologist is a medical professional specializing in the urinary system, including treating conditions affecting the kidneys, urinary tract, bladder, and more. However, it’s not always clear when you should go to the urologist versus seeing your primary care physician.
Let’s talk about when you should see a urologist and where to find the best urologist in Glendale, NY.
You Suspect You Have a Kidney Stone
Kidney stones occur when a buildup of calcium, salt, and other minerals create deposits – or stones – in the kidneys. Patients who have kidney stones struggle with the following:
- Blood in the urine
- Difficulty urinating
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the lower back and abdomen
- Pain that worsens while moving
If you are experiencing two or more of the symptoms above, it’s likely you are struggling with a kidney stone or stones. In such cases, you must see a urologist as soon as you become aware of these issues, as passing a kidney stone naturally is not always a viable option. Your urologist can provide you with the right treatment plan for you, whether that involves a minimally invasive or surgical procedure.
You are Urinating When You Shouldn’t Be
If you are leaking urine when you laugh and sneeze, or in the middle of the night, you may be suffering from an overactive bladder or urinary incontinence. These conditions can often be embarrassing for patients and leave them with lower self-esteem in social situations. Your urologist can provide you with treatment for your urinary incontinence or overactive bladder with the help of medications and lifestyle modifications. Your urologist may also recommend surgery if you are looking for a permanent solution to your condition.
You Have a UTI That Won’t Go Away
Urinary tract infections are common and can occur for a wide range of different reasons. You may have a UTI if you are experiencing:
- Blood in the urine
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Frequent urination or urgency to urinate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pelvic pain and pressure
UTIs are often treated with antibiotic medications. However, if your UTI does not go away with antibiotics, it may be a sign that you have an underlying condition or that your body is immune to the effects of the antibiotic. In this case, your urologist may recommend lifestyle changes, such as dietary changes or the use of anti-inflammatory medication.
You’re Experiencing Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction is characterized by a man’s inability to maintain a strong erection. Although sometimes psychological, ED may also result from an underlying medical condition. Your urologist can accurately diagnose the cause of your ED with a series of diagnostic tests. From there, they can develop a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs. This may include using prescribed medication or a referral to a mental health counselor.
Urologist in Glendale, NY
Although the list above are reasons you should see a urologist, it’s also recommended to visit the urologist every few years to ensure you are in good health. At EMU Health, we are proud to specialize in treating patients who have recently undergone a prostatectomy and are in need of medical assistance with their urinary incontinence.
In addition to specialized urology services, our state-of-the-art facility is home to a wide range of specialty fields, including primary care, interventional radiology, and worker’s compensation.
If you have any questions about our services or the symptoms you’ve been experiencing, call us today at (718) 850-4368. To schedule an appointment with one of our skilled doctors, feel free to use our convenient online appointment request form.