From the Research
Urology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions affecting the urinary tract system in both men and women, as well as the male reproductive system. Urologists are physicians who have completed specialized training to care for problems involving the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, and male reproductive organs including the prostate, testicles, and penis. They treat a wide range of conditions including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, bladder issues, incontinence, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, prostate enlargement, and urologic cancers.
Key Conditions Treated by Urologists
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney stones
- Bladder issues
- Incontinence
- Erectile dysfunction
- Male infertility
- Prostate enlargement
- Urologic cancers Urologists use various approaches in their practice, from medication management to minimally invasive procedures and complex surgeries, as noted in studies such as 1 which discusses the management of male lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic hyperplasia. They often work closely with other specialists such as nephrologists, oncologists, and gynecologists to provide comprehensive care. Patients typically seek urological care when experiencing symptoms like painful urination, blood in urine, frequent urination, difficulty urinating, pelvic pain, or sexual dysfunction. Regular urological check-ups are particularly important for men over 50 to monitor prostate health and screen for prostate cancer, as emphasized by the need for guidelines in managing male lower urinary tract symptoms 2. The most recent and highest quality study 3 highlights the importance of addressing complicated urinary tract infections in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, underscoring the complexity and breadth of urological care.