If you are experiencing problems in your genitourinary tract: your kidneys, renal pelvis, ureters, bladder, urethra, and penis, consulting an urologist is the best option. When you visit your urologist, you will have tests and procedures to reveal reasons for symptoms or screen for certain conditions.
Let’s talk about what to expect from some of today’s most frequently used genitourinary assessments.
Urinalysis and Blood Tests
You will have these routine medical assessments when you visit your urologist for the first time and periodically as the doctor deems necessary. A urine sample tells your physician about many acute and chronic conditions, including infections, diabetes, and renal diseases.
Your blood test reveals levels of creatinine and urea, or BUN, an indicator of chronic and acute kidney disease. Also, it shows your glomerular filtration rate or GFR. Your GFR tells your provider how well your kidneys filter waste and toxins in your system.
So, ensure you drink enough before your appointment to be able to urinate easily, leaving an adequate sample. Follow your doctor’s instructions for fasting before your blood test.
PSA
Prostate-specific antigen test, or PSA, is an easy, male-only blood test that measures specific blood proteins. These proteins indicate prostate health and, in excess, can be diagnostic for prostate cancer (along with a prostate biopsy). High PSA numbers may indicate benign prostatic enlargement, BPH, or even inflammation from an infection, such as prostatitis or cystitis (bladder infection).
Digital Rectal Examination
The DRE is a quick and painless assessment used to determine the size and structure of the prostate gland in men. The urologist inserts a gloved index finger into the rectum to palpate the prostate, particularly noting how firm it may be.
Sperm Analysis
Using a sample of your semen, the urology specialist will analyze the quantity and quality of your sperm. You may collect the sample at home or privately in the office.
Also called a seminogram, this important test tells the doctor about your fertility if you and your spouse are having trouble conceiving or if you have had a vasectomy and need to know when to safely resume sex.
Penile Ultrasound
This in-office assessment requires no special preparation. It sends sound waves into the shaft of the penis, and the sound waves create on-screen images, which reveal internal structures, blockages, and penile blood flow. Most men who have various degrees of erectile dysfunction or a penile curvature called Peyronie’s Disease need this brief but highly informative test to confirm a diagnosis and receive the right treatments.
Best Urologist in Phoenix and Gilbert, AZ
If you live in Phoenix, Arizona, and are looking for a urologist, look no further. Dr. Desiderio Avila, Jr is a board-certified urologist who can provide traditional and minimally invasive treatments for your urologic concerns. With over 20 years of experience, he is also fellowship-trained and a leading expert in men’s health issues in Arizona.
Here at Ironwood Urology, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and tailor-made care for your urinary and reproductive problems. From male infertility to prostate cancer, we have the means and the skills to help you get back to your healthy life.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Avila, call us today at (480) 961-2323 or use our online appointment request form.
