Most people will urinate somewhere between 6-7 times a day. It’s an automatic function, and you probably don’t think about the health of your urinary tract all that often; at least, not until something goes wrong.
A urologist is a physician who specializes in the health of your urinary tract, offering acute and routine care when needed. A urologist can help your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra stay healthy, addressing any diseases or conditions that may come up over time. So, if you’re having trouble urinating or urinating overly frequently, it may be time to make an appointment with your urologist.
The urology team at Yankton Medical Clinic has a long and successful history of treating patients with compassion and expertise. The urologists at YMC see men, women, and children at their Vermillion area offices.
What is a Urologist (and When Should You See One?)
A urologist is a physician who specializes in the treatment of the urinary tract and the organs connect to the urinary tract. This typically includes treatment of the:
- Bladder
- Kidneys
- Ureters
- Urethra
- Adrenal glands
- Reproductive system
Who Should See a Urologist?
Women who have reproductive health concerns may also see an OBGYN to address those concerns. In general, patients (especially men) over the age of 40 should see a urologist at least once a year for a routine exam.
Patients who are under the age of 40 are encouraged to see a urologist when they experience pain or discomfort when urinating. In general, pain and discomfort from urination are not normal. You should see your urologist when:
- You have trouble urinating.
- You find yourself urinating too frequently.
- You have no control over your urination (incontinence).
- You notice blood in your urine.
- You experience pain when urinating.
- You are experiencing abdominal pain.
- Your family has a history of urinary tract issues.
With most urinary tract issues, it’s better to receive care earlier in the process. Most urologists recommend that you make an appointment when you first notice symptoms. Waiting may result in worsening symptoms or less desirable outcomes.
What Conditions Do Urologists Treat?
Urologists can treat a wide variety of symptoms and conditions related to your urinary tract. Some of the most commonly diagnosed and treated conditions include the following:
- Enlarged prostate: Also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (or BPH), an enlarged prostate typically develops slowly over time. BPG is incredibly common, and most men will begin to notice the symptoms of an enlarged prostate at some point in their lives. This can lead to trouble urinating. Treatment may include surgery performed by your urologist.
- Kidney Stones: Collections of calcium and other minerals in your urinary tract can sometimes turn into painful kidney stones. Usually, these kidney stones can be passed naturally by your own body; but in some cases, a surgical remedy is required or recommended. Your urologist will help you manage discomfort and care.
- Pelvic prolapse: Weak structures can often allow some organs to slip out of place and put pressure on your abdomen. In some cases, a urologist will treat a pelvic prolapse surgically to help repair and bolster the necessary structure.
- Erectile dysfunction: If your reproductive system isn’t working the way you’d like, your urologist may be able to offer solutions. This can include solutions for both erectile dysfunction and infertility.
- Cancer: During your routine appointments, your urologist will screen for and help treat various forms of bladder and urinary-tract related cancers.
The full list of treated conditions is quite large. Treatment for each will vary depending on the underlying cause of your symptoms. In some cases, conditions can be treated easily with medication or even with a change in diet. In other instances, surgery may be required. At YMC, many outpatient surgical procedures can be performed at our onsite ambulatory surgical center, ensuring that patients are comfortable throughout the process.
Don’t Ignore Your Urinary Health
The health of your urinary tract can have profound implications for your overall health and wellness. That’s why it’s critical that you make it a point not to ignore urinary symptoms. Men, women, and children can all develop issues with their urinary tract.
A urologist will be able to help you stay healthy–so you can think more about living your life than using the restroom.
Contact YMC Today
Vermillion Medical Clinic offers urology services for patients who are in need of care to address health concerns regarding their urinary tracts. Our urology specialists diagnose and treat conditions of the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and ureter as well as male reproductive organs. If you or a loved one are in need of urologic care, contact Yankton Medical Clinic.
For appointments: 605-624-8643
