Many articles and blogs posted on the Internet only address the male population when it comes to seeing a urologist, but it’s equally important for women to do the same!
Women are often impacted by the same urological issues as men, and with urologists being surgeons and general physicians, men and women can benefit from getting their problems treated both medically and surgically. The team of highly qualified physicians and surgeons at Affiliated Urologists are discussing five reasons men and women should see a urologist.
Kidney Stones
Although kidney stones are more common in men, about 7 percent of women in the U.S. will experience kidney stones at some point in their life. The risks of developing a kidney stone include: eating a high protein diet, taking medications that can cause stones as a side effect, and not drinking enough water. If you are experiencing severe pain in your side, back, lower abdomen and/or groin, pain during urination, nausea, vomiting or blood in your urine, please see an Affiliated Urologist physician immediately.
Blood in Urine
It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman, having blood in your urine is never a good thing. Even one incident of blood in your urine commands the attention of a urologist. He or she can run basic screenings and tests to detect signs of an infection or disease, and in extreme cases, early signs of bladder or kidney cancer. Although bladder and kidney cancer is more common in men, women are still affected by it. See your urologist at the first sign of blood in your urine.
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections
If you’ve experienced two or more infections in 6 months, or three or more infections within one year, you should see a urologist to discuss the possibility of recurrent urinary tract infections. Recurrent urinary tract infections are more common in women than men and can be the result of a serious health issue your primary care provider may not be able to address. Your urologist will identify the cause of these infections and use antibiotic treatments or some prophylactic to break the series of recurrent infections.
Pain in the Pelvic Region
Chronic urologic pelvic pain impacts both sexes and is characterized by excessive urinary urgency and frequency, nocturia (nighttime urination) and pain in the lower abdomen. Treatment for pelvic pain depends on the condition causing the pain. A urologist will run a series of tests and examinations to determine what the underlying condition may be, and he or she will create an individualized treatment plan for the patient.
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or visit http://affiliatedurologists.com/contact/ for instructions on scheduling an appointment.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
