If you and your primary care provider have determined you need to see a urologist, you should know what this specialist does and how you can prepare for your consultation. Here we’ll answer some questions about visiting a urologist so that you are well-informed and so you can help this medical specialist accurately diagnose your health issue and plan the right treatment.
What Does a Urologist Treat?
A urologist is a physician with extra education and hands-on training in conditions and diseases of the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. Urologists treat the kidneys, which are the body’s primary toxin filters – they produce urine which is eliminated through the ureters, bladder, and urethra. The kidneys also regulate blood pressure by controlling the amount of water and sodium in the blood.
In addition, urologists treat the two adrenal glands located atop the kidneys. These glands perform many metabolic functions, including production of hormones, such as cortisol. The adrenal glands also play a significant role in the immune system, or the body’s defense system against communicable diseases.
Finally, for men, urologists treat problems with sexual health and reproduction. They are experts in the structure and function of the penis, testicles, vas deferens, prostate and seminal vesicles. Women typically see an OB/GYN specialist for their reproductive health issues.
What Conditions Does a Urology Specialist Diagnose?
Urologists diagnose and treat a great many acute and chronic diseases and conditions of the urinary tract and male reproductive system. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Kidney stones
- Urinary tract infections
- Prostatitis
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH
- Pain with urination
- Pain with sex
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low testosterone
- Prostate, kidney, bladder, testicular and penile cancers
- Male infertility
- Congenital malformations of the urinary tract
What Will Happen at My First Appointment?
When you visit your urology clinic for the first time, expect an in-depth consultation with the doctor. Come prepared with questions you wish to ask, and be ready to detail your:
- Medical history
- Current medications
- Current symptoms, including their location, duration and severity
- Any pertinent test results from other healthcare providers
Also, your urologist will perform a physical examination, which may include a digital rectal examination to examine your prostate. You will be asked to give a urine sample and may undergo specialized digital imaging, such as X-rays, ultrasound examination of the bladder, Doppler blood flow assessment (for the penis) and others as appropriate. With these findings, the urologist will comprise a treatment plan to address your symptoms.
How Can I Participate in My Treatment Plan?
Patient compliance and communication with the urology specialist keeps treatment on track. As you talk with your doctor, he can adjust aspects of your care for the best possible therapeutic outcomes.
Take any prescribed medications as directed. If you have surgery, follow the pre-operative instructions carefully, and after your procedure, keep your in-office visits as scheduled.
Expert Urology Specialist in Phoenix, Arizona
At Ironwood Urology, our urologist Dr. Desiderio Avila, Jr. is board-certified in urology and fellowship-trained in male reproductive health. He has the experience, astute diagnostic capabilities and exceptional listening skills to help you with whatever urinary tract or male sexual health issue you may have.
Call our office team today at (480) 961-2323 to arrange a consultation or request your visit here. We look forward to meeting you!
