Have you been experiencing pain or difficulty while urinating? Or maybe you’re having trouble with your sexual or prostate health? These questions signal that you need a urologist’s help, because you may have a kidney, bladder, hormone, or prostate issue. However, before you visit a urologist, you first have to set your expectations. Here’s what you need to know and prepare for before a urology appointment.
A Thorough Evaluation
First, your urologist will ask you to describe your symptoms, how severe they are, and how frequently they occur. Next, your doctor will ask about your medical history to determine any possible risks you may have. Your medical history includes not only past diagnoses but also diseases running in your family. Inherited urology conditions include polycystic kidney disease and Lowe syndrome.
Your medication and vitamin intake history are also necessary for a full diagnosis. Drinking alcohol and caffeine may also have a significant effect on your prostate. So, make sure you mention your diet and fluid intake, as well.
Blood Tests and Physical Examination
Your urologist may need other diagnostics in addition to medical history, including blood tests, physical exams, and imaging tests. A prostate-specific antigen blood test is necessary for ruling out prostate health issues like cancer.
The physical exam includes a genitalia assessment and digital rectal exam, both of which are minimally invasive prostate tests. On the other hand, imaging tests like CT scans and ultrasounds will examine the kidneys and bladder.
Urine tests are also essential in ruling out diseases such as viral infections, blood disorders, kidney inflammation, and cancers. A technician will assess the color, appearance, odor, and presence of foreign substances such as blood or crystals in a urinalysis.
These diagnostic tests can help your doctor determine what condition you have and what treatment is best for your specific situation. Here are the common conditions you can expect to hear about during your visit:
● Kidney stones
● Stress incontinence
● Prostate enlargement and other prostate health issues
Prostate, bladder, and kidney cancers are also some of the diseases your urologist may detect.
Getting Answers To Your Questions About Prostate Health
After diagnostic tests, your urologist will come up with a treatment plan. Some doctors may even present you with a variety of treatment options. Before choosing one, ask about its risks and limitations, so you’ll know what to expect.
Once you receive a treatment plan, inquire about its side effects and how it might interfere with any current medications you take. Better yet, make sure to inform your urologist early on about your lifestyle. This way, they can plan the best treatment for you.
You should also ask about the dos and don’ts concerning your physical, mental, and sexual health. Learning about the risk factors is also important in helping you control symptoms. Some prostate health conditions may also affect your diet. If you’re diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, be ready to cut off salty snacks and protein-rich foods.
You should also inquire about what types of insurance benefits their clinic accepts. This way, you can prepare for the financial implications of your treatment plan.
Urologist in Phoenix, AZ
Your first visit with a urologist can be the turning point for your urinary and prostate health. So, make sure you’re ready for physical exams and urinary tests. Try to note down your symptoms, when they started, and how severe they are while awaiting your appointment. You should also prepare some questions you may have about your condition. All of these simple steps can help your urologist make the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Here at Ironwood Urology, we have an experienced urologist and state-of-the-art equipment to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and best treatment options. Our urologist and prostate health expert, Dr. Desiderio Avila Jr., is also the only men’s fertility specialist in the city.
To make an appointment with us, simply request an appointment online. Alternatively, you can call us at (480) 961-2323. Our friendly staff and compassionate urologist are eager to help you get back to optimal health!
