Urology is a branch of medicine that focuses on medical conditions of the male and female urinary tract systems. The urologist is a medical professional that specializes in the urinary system. In ancient times, doctors used to examine the urine of a patient for clues about their illness. Today, there is an entire field of medicine that focuses on the health of the urinary system which includes the kidney, bladder, prostate, penis & testis.
A urologist could even serve as your primary doctor if you have:
- Regular problems with kidney stones
- Prostate cancer
- Long-term problems with holding your urine
What Is The Urinary Tract?
The kidneys, ureters, and bladder, are the key components of the urinary tract. Urinary tract is your body’s drainage system for removing urine. Urine is a combination of wastes and water. In order for urination to occur normally and without any complications, all body parts in the urinary tract need to work together.
What Do Urologists Do?
A urologist is trained to diagnose and treat problems of the urinary tract. Urologists deal with men and women alike. With women, a urologist deals only with the problems of the urinary tract. With men, however, the urologist can diagnose and treat disorders of the penis and testicles also. They also look after male infertility and sexual disorders.
When Should I See The Urologist?
Your doctor may advise you to visit a urologist if you’re exhibiting symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), difficulty in passing urine, blood in urine, Incontinence (urinary leakage), or Erectile Dysfunction. As these illnesses lie in the scope of a urologist, a general doctor will recommend that you visit one. The urologist also looks after male infertility and sexual problem.