Urology and Men’s Health Week
Men’s Health Week is right around the corner, running from June 15 to 21.
The point of Men’s Health Week is to promote the health and wellbeing of men and boys around the world. It especially promotes the idea for men and boys to seek regular medical treatment and understand the importance of early detection of diseases and illnesses to help live a longer, fuller life.
So it’s only right that here at Norman Urology we help men and boys understand their urology health and make sure they are doing their best to make sure their bodies are in tip-top shape.
An Overview
When it comes to men’s urology health, there are four main areas to think about: the bladder, the kidneys, the penis and the prostate. These are all of the main areas that a urologist checks and helps a male take care of.
Urological issues can affect one’s daily life if they aren’t addressed. Even seemingly small problems such as urinary tract infections can be a sign there are underlying situations going on, so it’s important for men and boys to take urological health seriously.
It’s especially important that understanding urology care starts at a young age because there are issues that can affect males of all ages. We’ve listed some examples of issues that affect each area to give you an idea of what to look out for in your urology care.
The Bladder
Two examples of common issues men experience in relation to the bladder are incontinence and UTIs.
Incontinence: Incontinence is the loss of control of the bladder. It’s more common for older men to experience this, but that doesn’t mean younger men can’t either. This is caused by an underlying condition, which means if you experience incontinence, there is some other issue causing this, so you should go see a doctor.
UTI: Despite common myths, urinary tract infections can happen in women AND men; they just happen more frequently in women. UTIs develop when bacteria and germs block the urethra and cause inflammation. Although home remedies such as taking cranberry pills can help, you always should go get antibiotics from your physician. If a UTI goes on too long, it can lead to bigger problems such as kidney infection.
The Kidneys
An issue that affects the health of kidneys in men is kidney stones.
Kidney Stones: Kidney stones are minerals that build up in your kidneys over time. You can have them for months and years, and they won’t cause problems. It’s when they start to move through your system that it becomes painful. You’ll need to go see your doctor and figure out the best way to remove them. You can avoid this painful experience simply by staying hydrated.
The Penis
Two issues that affect the penis are erectile dysfunction and testicular cancer.
Erectile Dysfunction: Erectile dysfunction is when a man cannot get or maintain an erection. This can cause a variety of problems and affect one’s mental health. It’s more common then people think and is often experienced in older men. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment to fix the issue.
Testicular Cancer: The testes are what make and store sperm in males. This form of cancer usually affects young men between the ages of 15 and 35. Luckily, it’s quite rare and usually can be detected early as long as regular checks of the prostate and testes are done either through a doctor or at home.
The Prostate
Two examples of conditions that affect the prostate are prostatitis and prostate cancer.
Prostatitis: Prostatitis is swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland, located directly below the bladder in men. The gland produces semen and helps transport sperm. This condition can be painful and feel very similar to a UTI. It can be treated with antibiotics.
Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death in men, and about one in nine men will develop it in their lifetime. All men starting at the age of 50 should get annual screenings of the prostate, although earlier screenings won’t hurt anything.
Contact Us Today
Here at Norman Urology, we take urological care seriously in both males and females. Our specialized care from experienced professionals is unlike any other, and we would be happy to help you or your loved one in answering questions or looking at an issue.
Reach out to us today on our website to schedule an appointment. We can’t wait to meet you.
