Issues involving the urinary tract such as the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra are not only inconvenient, but they can be potentially dangerous if not addressed. Patients often seek the care of their primary physicians to investigate these concerns. However, some cases require further evaluation and treatment from an urologist.
Richmond University Medical Center offers urology services at the Urology Services Center on Staten Island, New York. Here, we discuss when it’s necessary to seek the medical attention of a board-certified urologist.
What Is Urology?
Serving as the body’s filtration system, the role of the urinary system is to filter and remove waste products from the body in the form of urine. Additionally, it regulates blood volume and pressure and controls electrolyte and metabolite levels. The urinary system also regulates blood pH and synthesizes some substances.
Urology is the sector of medicine that involves care for diseases and other conditions concerning the male and female urinary tract. Urology also involves treatments for conditions originating in the reproductive organs and the adrenal glands.
Reasons to See a Urologist
A urologist is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring ailments that affect the urinary systems of males and females, as well as their reproductive systems. Patients should consider seeing a urologist for the following reasons:
Frequent or Urgent Need to Urinate
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common causes of frequent or urgent feelings of urination. UTIs are often the result of bacteria that enter the urethra and then the bladder. Patients who experience reoccurring UTIs (two or more infections in a six month period), may be referred to a urologist for further evaluation.
Difficulty Urinating
Difficulty urinating or maintaining a strong urine flow is referred to as urinary hesitancy. The source of urinary hesitancy can be located somewhere within the urinary system. If left untreated, this condition can cause bladder infections or lead to severe kidney damage. Patients may be recommended to see a urologist for treatment.
Pelvic Pain
Constant pelvis pain is not normal and should be evaluated by a urologist. This pain can be a symptom of a variety of conditions involving the urinary system, including a UTI, kidney stones, interstitial cystitis, and others.
Blood Present in Urine
Bloody urine can be the result of a wide range of issues stemming from parts of the urinary tract. Patients who notice blood in their urine should seek the professional care of a urologist to identify the source of the condition and receive treatment.
Gender-Specific Reasons to See a Urologist
While urinary health is vital for everyone, men and women can experience medical concerns unique to them that require the care of a urologist.
Male patients should also consult with a urologist if they:
- Experience prostate problems
- Experience trouble getting or maintaining an erection
- Have a reduced sex drive
- Notice a lump on their testicle
- Have an abnormal PSA blood test
Women patients should consult with a urologist if they:
- Experience urinary incontinence
- Have frequent urinary tract infections
- Experience vaginal heaviness or a bulge
Urology Services Available at Richmond University Medical Center
Patients in Staten Island can find the highest quality surgical and nonsurgical urology care at Richmond University Medical Center’s Urology Services Center. Utilizing the latest technological advances, our urologists are able to accurately identify and treat an assortment of urology conditions, including:
- Bladder conditions and bladder cancer
- Kidney stones and kidney stone disease
- Prostate cancer
- Prostate disease and enlarged prostate
- Renal or kidney cancer
- Urological cancer and testicular cancer
The urology services offered at Richmond University Medical Center also include men’s sexual health services, such as:
- Vasectomies
- Testosterone therapy to address diminished sex drive
- Infertility
- Treatment for erectile dysfunction
Women’s health services include:
- Bladder/uterine prolapse or vaginal bulge
- Urinary incontinence
- Urogynecology services
Schedule an Appointment with Board-Certified Oncologists
The Urology Services Center of Richmond University Medical Center, located in the heart of Staten Island, provides advanced treatments and procedures for adult male and female patients. Our experienced specialists offer comprehensive surgical and nonsurgical care for conditions such as kidney stones, urologic cancers (including prostate cancer), and a wide range of urological conditions. Our goal is to help relieve symptoms, enhance comfort, and restore function for our patients.
Patients can also receive advanced care and surgical procedures at Richmond University Medical Center’s main hospital. Anyone who believes they could benefit from the attention of our board-certified urologists should contact us at 718-370-1400 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
