Urology is a medical specialty focused on the urinary tract system in both men and women, and it also addresses the male reproductive organs. Understanding what typically happens during a visit to a urologist can help ease concerns.
Reasons for Consulting a Urologist
Individuals often consult a urologist for symptoms affecting the urinary or male reproductive systems. Common reasons include recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or persistent issues like blood in the urine (hematuria). Kidney stones or concerns about an enlarged prostate frequently lead to a urology visit. Other conditions managed by urologists include urinary incontinence, male infertility, and erectile dysfunction.
Your Urology Visit: Preparation and Examination
Preparation
Preparing for your first urology appointment involves gathering relevant health information. Compile a list of all current medications, including any over-the-counter drugs or supplements. Note your medical history, any previous surgeries, and specific symptoms or questions to discuss. Bring your insurance information and identification. Many clinics advise arriving with a comfortably full bladder, as a urine sample is often collected.
Examination
Upon arrival, you will check in and be called back by a nurse or medical assistant. They will take your vital signs and review your medical history and current symptoms. This initial discussion helps the urologist tailor the examination and any necessary tests. The physical examination varies depending on your symptoms and gender. It may include a general assessment, an abdominal exam, and potentially a genital exam. For men, a digital rectal exam (DRE) may be performed to assess the prostate gland.
Common Diagnostic Procedures
Urologists frequently order specific diagnostic tests. Urine tests are common, with urinalysis used to check for infection, blood, or protein in the urine. A urine culture may also be performed to identify specific bacteria if an infection is suspected. Urine cytology involves examining urine for abnormal cells, which can indicate certain conditions.
Blood Tests
Blood tests provide insights, such as the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, which helps assess prostate health. Kidney function is often evaluated through blood tests measuring creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels.
Imaging Studies
Imaging studies offer visual information about the urinary tract and related organs. An ultrasound is a common non-invasive method to visualize kidneys, the bladder, prostate, or testes. Computed tomography (CT) scans provide detailed cross-sectional images, often used to detect kidney stones or tumors. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can also be used for more detailed soft tissue imaging.
Other Procedures
Other procedures may be performed based on initial findings. A cystoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible scope through the urethra to view the inside of the bladder and urethra. This procedure allows for direct visualization of the lining and can help diagnose issues like bladder stones or abnormal growths. Urodynamic testing measures how well the bladder and urethra store and release urine, helping to diagnose issues like incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder.
Understanding Your Results and Follow-Up
Following your initial appointment and any ordered diagnostic tests, the urologist will communicate the results to you. This may occur through a phone call, a secure patient portal, or during a scheduled follow-up appointment. The urologist will explain the findings in detail, providing a diagnosis.
Discussion will then shift to potential treatment options, which can range from medication and lifestyle adjustments to more involved procedures or referrals to other specialists. You will receive prescriptions if needed and clear instructions for any next steps. Scheduling follow-up appointments is a common part of this process to monitor your condition and the effectiveness of the treatment plan.