Urology deals with disorders of the urinary tract; the kidneys, bladder, prostate, and male reproductive organs (penis and testes). If you experience problems with your urinary health, it’s helpful and important to see a urologist for evaluation and treatment. Common concerns include: blood in the urine, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, frequent voiding or difficulty controlling the bladder, sexual health concerns, prostate cancer screening, trouble emptying the bladder (urinary retention), a lump in the scrotum or other infections of the urinary tract. Here are some common questions you might have.

Questions Your Urologist Can Answer for You

What are the symptoms and consequences of a urinary tract infection?

The most common symptom is a burning sensation when you urinate. You may also experience pain in your lower abdomen, cloudy or bloody urine, and a strong urge to urinate even when your bladder is empty. If left untreated, urinary tract infections can lead to serious complications like kidney damage, sepsis, and even death. 

How can I prevent urinary tract infections?

There are several things you can do to reduce your risk. These include drinking plenty of fluids, urinating frequently, and emptying your bladder completely when you go to the bathroom. You should also avoid holding in your urine for too long, as this can increase your risk of developing an infection. Finally, if you're sexually active, always practice safe sex by using condoms.

What are the causes and consequences of urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence can be either temporary or chronic. Some common causes include pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, obesity, smoking, and certain medications. If left untreated, the condition can lead to serious health problems like skin breakdown, dehydration, and kidney damage.

What are the treatments for urinary incontinence?

The treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause. Common treatments include lifestyle changes such as losing weight or quitting smoking, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. If you're experiencing incontinence, discuss treatment options with a urology specialist so you can find an approach that suits your needs.

What are the symptoms and consequences of prostate cancer?

The most common symptom is difficulty urinating. You may also experience pain or burning when urinating, a need to go more frequently, or blood in your urine. Like any cancer, if left untreated, prostate cancer can spread to other parts of the body and lead to serious health problems. Prostate cancer is a serious disease, but it can be treated effectively if it's caught early.

What are the treatments for prostate cancer?

The treatment for prostate cancer will vary depending on the stage of the disease. Some common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. Your urologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan to suit your individual needs and situation.

When you need an expert in urology, make an appointment with Dr. Christopher Gran at United Hospital District. With urology appointments available in our Blue Earth and Fairmont clinics, it's easy for you to get the care you need. To make an appointment, call (507) 526-7388, or visit our website to learn more.