If you are a man who is conscientious about maintaining good health, you probably make a point of seeing your primary care physician (PCP) at least once a year for a routine checkup. Seeing a specialist, however, is only a priority when unusual symptoms arise – say, for instance, when you develop a problem involving your urinary tract or reproductive system.
For that, you may need to consult a urologist, a doctor who specializes in the organs that filter, retain, and expel urine, including the kidneys, ureters, prostate, and bladder, as well as address issues that hamper sexual activity. However, it’s not always easy to decide if seeing a urologist is necessary – rather than your family doctor – given that the services of each provider often overlap.
Here is some guidance on when to opt to see a urologist.
Signs You Need To See A Urologist
While it is okay to first consult your PCP if you have a bladder or kidney issue, you will most likely be referred to a urologist if the issue is not resolved. Symptoms that indicate you should follow up with a urologist include:
- Blood in the urine
- Pain or a burning sensation while urinating, which may indicate a urinary tract infection
- The frequent need to urinate or having difficulty urinating is possibly related to an enlarged prostate
- Incontinence
- Severe constipation
- Pain in the lower abdomen, side of the back, or groin, which may be caused by a kidney stone
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
- Fertility issues
- Elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen), a protein in the blood that, at a high level, may indicate prostate cancer
- A mass or pain in the testicles
- An inability to conceive after a year of trying without contraceptive use
Although most urinary problems in men develop after the age of 50, you can see a urologist at any age. The doctor will talk with you about your specific concerns, examine you, and conduct tests based on your particular symptoms. The doctor will especially focus on the function of your kidneys and whether your bladder is emptying properly and may perform a prostate cancer screening. Depending on what is causing your symptoms, recommended treatment may include medication, surgery, or specific exercises designed to strengthen the intestinal muscles.
Best Urologist in Phoenix, Arizona
If you suspect you are experiencing a urological problem or have been referred to one by your PCP, you can receive the quality care you need with Dr. Desiderio Avila at Ironwood Urology. Dr. Avila is the only fellowship-trained specialist in male infertility to arrive in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area in more than 15 years. He is highly qualified to help men with complex issues regarding sexual health, infertility, hormone imbalance, and much more, which is why so many patients trust Dr. Avila for his expert diagnosis and the latest in proven urologic treatments.
Dr. Avila takes the time to thoroughly evaluate your condition and, depending on your specific condition, educate you on your nonsurgical and surgical treatment options, so you can make an informed decision on what is best for you. Dr. Avila is experienced in the latest urologic techniques to effectively care for your condition, including minimally invasive procedures with less pain and shorter recovery times than traditional surgery. The specialty areas of our practice include:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Inflatable penile prosthesis
- Low testosterone
- Male infertility
- Peyronie’s disease
- Prostate health
- Vasectomy
- Vasectomy reversal
For the specialized men’s healthcare you need from an experienced urologist, schedule a consultation with Dr. Desiderio Avila by calling (480) 961-2323. Dr. Avila welcomes patients in both Phoenix and Gilbert, Arizona. You can also request an appointment online.
