While primary care physicians are equipped to handle a wide range of urinary problems, your PCP will refer you to a urologist – a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the genitourinary system – if you need advanced care. If you’re a man, your PCP will give you a referral to a urologist specializing in men’s health.
If you’re on this page because you want to learn more about what may transpire during your visit to a urology clinic, the information below can help set your expectations.
Filling Out Paperwork
As with other medical appointments, your first visit to the urology clinic starts with filling out some forms. Make sure to provide all the necessary information, such as your family and personal medical history, any symptoms you’re experiencing, and medications you’re currently on. These will help your urologist get a clearer picture of your problem.
Evaluation
Once you’re done with your paper work, your urologist may then discuss with you all of the information you’ve filled in the form. Afterwards is a physical exam, particularly a digital rectal exam (DRE), in which your urologist will insert their finger (gloved and lubricated) into your rectum to feel the back part of your prostate for enlargement and other abnormalities.
You will also likely be required to give a urine sample during your appointment, so make sure to show up with a full bladder. If it’s difficult for you to hold your urine for a long time, inform the staff immediately when you arrive at the clinic so that they can get your urine sample for urinalysis right away. You may also have to provide a semen sample if your problem is related to your reproductive system.
The urologist may also order blood work to assess your blood count, testosterone levels, prostate function, kidney function, among other health indicators. Additionally, your urologist may order imaging scans to visualize and monitor specific organs.
Treatment
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, your urologist will then devise a treatment plan. The treatment you require will depend on your specific condition and its severity. For instance, if you have prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia/ BPH), your urologist may recommend alpha blockers to help relax the bladder and prostate muscles, among other interventions. Surgery may be necessary if conservative or nonoperative treatments are unsuccessful.
Urology Clinic Near Me in Phoenix and Gilbert, AZ
If you’re in search of a reputable urology clinic in Phoenix or Gilbert, Arizona, look no further than Ironwood Urology. Our board-certified urologist, Dr. Desiderio Avila, Jr., has earned the trust and confidence of scores of men for his dedication to providing the highest quality of care. Whatever you need – whether vasectomy, vasectomy reversal, prostate cancer testing, or erectile dysfunction treatment – you can count on Dr. Avila to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
To book your visit with Dr. Avila, call us at (480) 961-2323 or fill out our appointment request form online.
