At some point in life, the majority of us will need to see a urologist for any number of reasons.
Symptoms that might trigger a referral from your primary doctor include things like:
Bladder issues, including incontinence, urinary tract infections, or interstitial cystitis (bladder pain).
Kidney stones, which are hard deposits consisting of minerals and salts that can form inside the kidney and can be extremely painful.
An enlarged prostate, which may put pressure on the bladder at the urethra which can lead to serious medical issues.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the 5 things you can expect before and during a urologist's office visit.
#1 Prepare Before You See Your Urologist
Before your visit, make a list of medications and supplements you currently take and write down any symptoms you’ve been experiencing, ensuring nothing is overlooked during the exam.
Write down questions so you get specific answers to them.
Remember to go to your visit with a full bladder in case your doctor wants to run a urinalysis (more on that later).
#2 Fill Out Paperwork Once You Arrive
While in the waiting room, you’ll likely be asked to fill out some forms (especially if this is your first visit). Many doctors now use handheld computer devices to record your information rather than paper forms.
Doctors and their administrators need a record of things like date of birth, home address, and insurance information as well as prior medical history. If you have a family history of bladder cancer, for example, your physician will need to know that.
Sometimes it can seem overwhelming, but don’t rush yourself. Most offices allow you to fill out the remaining paperwork even after you’ve been called into the examination room.
#3 Measurements
Perhaps the most dreaded of all components of an examination at any doctor’s visit is the scale. (Admit it, we’ve all had that sinking feeling as we realize we’ve put on a few pounds after the holidays!)
But doctors need a baseline weight if it’s your first visit, and for returning patients, this measures any big changes in weight that may indicate underlying issues.
#4 Vital Signs
Just about every doctor will record your vital signs, so no surprises there. The doctor will assess things like blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and respiration.
#5 Physical Examination
Before the physical examination begins, your doctor will review your measurements and vital signs and may ask you to elaborate on some of the information you provided when you filled out your paperwork.
So what kind of physical examinations can you expect your urologist to perform? It depends on the condition the doctor is treating or trying to diagnose, but two of the most common tests are:
A Urinalysis
Your doctor will have you urinate in a cup (this can be done in the office or at home) to use as a sample for testing.
A urinalysis is used to detect things like bacteria, white blood cells, blood, and nitrates.
Based on your symptoms, for example, your doctor may suspect you have a UTI (urinary tract infection) and so order a urinalysis to confirm.
It’s a basic diagnostic test that helps your physician identify primary and underlying conditions.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
This is a simple procedure that allows your doctor to examine the lower rectum and surrounding areas including the prostate gland, uterus, ovaries– and of course – the bladder.
Your urologist will insert a lubricated, gloved finger into your rectum and apply pressure while they examine your bladder for any issues.
While most people find this procedure uncomfortable, it takes just a few minutes to complete and generally isn’t painful.
Meeting With a Specialist
After the exam, your urologist will discuss with you your condition and possible solutions. Your urologist may prescribe medication, physical therapy, or even surgery.
The physicians and staff at Norman Urology are dedicated to serving patients in Norman and surrounding communities. We offer comprehensive urological care and our physicians are highly trained to treat disorders of the male and female urinary tract, including incontinence, bladder conditions, and kidney stones.
If you’re having symptoms of a possible urinary issue, why not schedule an appointment with us today?