September 12th is celebrated in Brazil Urologist’s Day. Despite being an important date in the world of medicine, urology is one of the medical specialties that raises the most doubts. Many people think that urologist is a man’s doctor, that he only takes care of the prostate and other issues that involve the male body. But, is this true? What does the urologist take care of? What does he do at the first consultation? The specialist and expert on the subject Rogério Saint-Clair Pimentel Mafra spoke with our team and clarified some doubts about this area. Check it out!
Urologist takes care of what?
“Urology is the medical specialty that takes care of the entire urinary system and the male reproductive system. He is the specialist who treats diseases related to the male genital organs and urinary tract diseases”, replies Rogério. Unlike nephrologists (who only take care of the kidneys), the urologist also deals with issues in the bladder and urethra, for example.
Is a urologist a doctor for men?
This is one of the most common questions regarding this specialty. But this story is nothing more than a myth! “The urologist also treats women”, explains the specialist. “Urinary tract diseases are treated by urologists. Problems such as kidney stones (kidney stones), urinary incontinence (loss) and urinary tract infections, which women can have, are treated by urologists.” Therefore, women should also include this professional in their list of doctors when scheduling their annual check-up.
What the urologist does at the first consultation?
It is important to understand what to expect from a urologist when you enter the office for the first time. Dr. Rogério explains how the specialist generally proceeds: “In this first assessment, the patient must wait for the doctor to talk to him, listen to his demands and carry out, if necessary, a physical assessment and request tests, depending on the complaint, some treatment”. Among the exams, blood tests, flowmetry, spermogram, among others, may be ordered.
It is also likely that the specialist will digital rectal exam in the office itself. It is very important to break the prejudice about the digital examination, which is carried out on males to investigate, in most cases, prostate cancer. It is quick, lasts just a few seconds (maximum, one minute) and painless. The patient may feel some discomfort, but only momentary. It is essential to encourage the male population not to shy away from this type of clinical examination.
What are the most common diseases treated by a urologist?
Among the most common health problems in the urologist’s office, Rogério Saint-Clair presents some examples:
- – Benign prostate diseases;
- – Prostate cancer;
- – Urinary stones;
- – Urinary infection;
- – Infections sexually transmitted;
- – Psexual potency;
- – Premature ejaculation.
Furthermore, it is common for the urologist to also treat of incontinence urinary tract, changes in the penis and genitourinary tumors.
When should I see a urologist?
Many people are unaware of the role of a urologist, as they do not know when, in fact, they should look for this specialty. Here’s a tip from the professional: “Any different sensation than usual when urinating is a warning to see a urologist. Changes in sexual performance or dissatisfaction are also indicative of seeking specialized help”, recommends Dr. Rogério.
If sexually transmitted infections or any of the characteristic symptoms are suspected, such as itching, redness, penile warts, burning, blisters or sores, a good urologist can also help diagnose and treat the problem. Being a specialist in the male genital area, he will be ready to recommend the best treatment and also the prevention of new STIs.
Urologist can also help with male fertility
Another problem in which a urologist can be useful is in the case of suspected male infertility. Using tests such as spermograms, it is possible to observe the chances of fertility and, if possible, treatments to reverse or increase the chances of having a child. Otherwise, the same rule applies: to adopt a definitive or reversible contraceptive method, like vasectomythe urologist is the best doctor to monitor the patient.
The post Care for Life.
Source: cuidadospelavida.com.br
