Urology is an important field of medicine that often gets overlooked. It is the study of the urinary tracts in men and women, as well as the reproductive organs of men. Spanning from expertise on urinary tract infections to kidney stones, the knowledge of medical experts in this field includes anything concerning the kidneys, the bladder, and even the adrenal glands.
When most people think of urology medical services, urinary tract infections first come to mind. But many circumstances exist that require the aid of a urology specialist. And many of these problems require incredible professionalism, education, and discretion on the behalf of the specialist as these conditions involve the urinary tract system or the male reproductive system.
Urology field training in the diagnosis, treatment, management, and surgical procedures related to disorders associated with the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and ureters is required for a urologist. These specialists are also knowledgeable in erectile dysfunction, male infertility, overactive bladder, cancers of the testicles, prostate, penis, bladder, kidneys, and the adrenal gland. Yet, the main flow of information begins with you: you must know what to look for and what to ask your urologist in order to help maintain urological health.
Your urological system consists of kidneys, which filter out waste products from your blood stream, and ureters that transport liquid waste products to the bladder. Millions of nerves, dozens of muscles, sphincters, and supporting ligaments all work together to remove wastes from the body. However, illness, old age, and injuries can cause weakening or damage to the whole system, leading to the need for medical treatment.
Urinalysis is often used as a first test to determine urological health. The test requires a urine sample that is sent to a lab for further testing. An additional test, called the urodynamic test, may be conducted. This test involves a small tube called a catheter, which is inserted into the urethra to allow for visual examination.
In addition to UTIs, some common conditions that may require medical attention include enlarged prostate, painful bladder syndrome, kidney stones, urinary incontinence, stress incontinence, and urinary retention. Cranberry juice often alleviates symptoms in many instances of urinary tract infections, but a specialist may be needed to treat the underlying causes of the infection in order to prevent future infections and further complications.
The field of urology, like many specializations in medicine, is further broken down into medical services for both surgical and nonsurgical procedures. Urology includes so many bodily systems and specialties that sub-disciplines are required to improve overall urological health. Sub-disciplines in urology include:
Endourology—A field of surgery that requires the least amount of invasive treatments. It uses the urinary tract as an access point for many procedures.
Oncology—A field designed specifically for cancers of the urological system.
Neurourology—The specialty of neurological causes of abnormal urination.
Pediatricics—The specialty of urological disorders in children.
Andrology—A sub-specialty for the male reproductive system.
Reconstructive urology—A field dedicated to the correction, repair, and augmentation of the genito-urinary tract.
Female urology—The specialty that focuses on overactive bladder, incontinence, and prolapsed pelvic organs.
The best way to maintain your urological health is by becoming aware of the many types of urological symptoms, which are warnings of potential future problems. Further, you must drink plenty of fresh, clean water every day. And finally, make immediate appointments with your urologist if you suspect