A urologist is a medical professional who can help prevent, diagnose, and treat conditions of the urinary system- the urinary bladder, urethra, ureter, and kidneys. A urologist also holds specialization in conditions affecting the adrenal glands and reproductive system of both males and females.

Urologists may practice different subspecialties, including pediatric urology, genitourinary reconstruction, male infertility, kidney transplantation, urologic oncology, and sexual medicine. They may even be trained as surgeons and practice minimally invasive surgeries including robotic, endoscopic, and laparoscopic surgery. Here is the guide by Dr. Niren Rao, Best Urologist in Delhi at Delhi Urology Hospital, on what are the signs of urological issues and when one needs to visit a urologist.

What conditions can a urologist treat?

A urologist can treat common medical conditions affecting men, women, and children as well as rarely occurring illnesses. Some of the conditions include:

1. Interstitial cystitis- a chronic painful urinary bladder

2. Haematuria- blood in the urine

3. Urinary incontinence- an overactive urinary bladder that causes accidental urinary leakage

4. Frequent Urinary tract infections

5. Conditions of the male reproductive system like an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia

6. Congenital Urinary tract issues

7. Pelvic organ prolapses

8. Erectile Dysfunction

9. Cancers of the kidney, bladder, and prostate

10. Kidney stones.

Reasons to consult a urologist

A general physician may refer the patient to a urologist or the patient may directly consult a urologist, if the patient is experiencing:

1. Difficulty in peeing, including trouble in getting urination started or having a strong urine flow, cloudy urine or blood discharge in the urine, or painful urination- These signs could be an indication of underlying medical conditions like urinary tract infections and interstitial cystitis

2. Pelvic pain or severe lower abdominal pain- It can be a sign of several medical issues like kidney stones, prostate infection or inflammation, and cancers of the prostate, kidney, or urinary bladder

3. Fertility issues in men- mostly because of low sperm count

4. Changes in urination, like feeling a constant urge to urinate, frequent urination, or leaking urine- these are symptoms of urinary incontinence or overactive urinary bladder

5. Trouble in getting or keeping the penis erect at the time of sexual intercourse- a sign of Erectile dysfunction

6. A heavy feeling in the vag-inal area as if something is falling into it

7. Passing urine at unexpected times like during the night or when sneezing, laughing, or exercising.

What to expect when visiting a urologist?

At an appointment with a urologist, the doctor may ask the patients about their medical history and their current intake of medications. Next, the urologist may ask the patient for some diagnostic tests to diagnose the patient’s condition and accordingly plan out the best way to treat the patient. Some of the tests that a urologist may order, include:

1. physical examination of the rectum in males and pelvic in females

2. urinalysis, semen analysis, and routine blood tests

3. imaging tests such as CT scans and ultrasound.

Do consult Dr. Niren Rao, one of the top urologists in Delhi, India to get an effective treatment for all types of kidney and bladder related issues. He treats all types of urological issues effectively. Do visit him to learn more!