By Century Medical and Dental Center (Harlem)

04/11/2024 A urologist is a physician who has studied, trained, and worked to diagnose and treat problems in the urinary tract and its related organs, including your:

• Adrenal glands;
• Kidneys;
• Ureters;
• Bladder;
• Urethra.

The genitourinary system is also the urologist’s focus since it includes the male reproductive organs, including the testes, scrotum, spermatic ducts, and penis. A urology specialist treats men and women of any age, including children. Urology includes surgical treatment options, so unlike primary care physicians, your urologist is a trained surgeon.
Treating Common Urologic Conditions
You may develop a genitourinary problem at some point in your life. Consult your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Urinary tract infection (UTI);
• Kidney stones;
• Bladder stones;
• Bladder infection;
• Overactive bladder;
• Blood in your urine;
• Leaking urine;
• Urinary incontinence.

In addition to the conditions above, urologists also treat male-specific conditions, including:

• Erectile dysfunction and other male sexual disorders;
• Infertility issues;
• Enlarged prostate;
• Prostate cancer;
• Testicular cancer;
• Painful bladder syndrome;
• An abnormal lump on your testes.

Children and infants sometimes have special needs that pediatric urologists can correct, such as:

• Blocked urine ducts in newborns;
• Bedwetting issues;
• Abnormal urine flow.

Consultation with a Urologist
Consult your urology specialist if you are experiencing strange symptoms. If you suspect you have a UTI or any other genitourinary problem, request a referral to Century Medical and Dental from your family practice doctor. The initial visit is a consultation, during which the doctor will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam.
You may have to take some tests to help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis. These tests include:

• X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. These imaging tests can reveal the physical issues in your urinary system that are causing your symptoms.
• Uroflow test. A uroflow measures the volume and speed of urine you release during normal urination. It helps your specialist zero in on the cause of your problems.
• Urodynamic testing. Urodynamics examines your bladder and urethra to ensure they’re functioning properly. It points to causes of specific urinary tract issues, such as an overactive bladder.
• Cystoscopy. Your urologist can use this diagnostic procedure to see inside your urethra and bladder. This test examines the lining of the urinary tract.
• Ureteroscopy. The specialist uses this procedure to look inside your ureters and kidneys. The ureteroscope is longer and thinner than the cystoscope.
• Prostate tests. These include a digital rectal exam, a prostate-specific antigen blood test, and a biopsy to check the size or health of your prostate gland.