Urologist appointment what should i expect

Your urologist will often start the appointment by assessing your medical history including any medications you are taking, the reason for your visit, details of any symptoms you are experiencing and duration of symptoms, and anything else relevant to your condition. Urological symptoms can have various potential causes. Moreover, since proper urinary function requires coordination of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra, a number of diagnostic tests may be required to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Your urologist will perform a physical exam to evaluate your condition. Depending on what they suspect to be the problem, your urologist may also order a combination of any of the following tests:. Once a diagnosis has been determined, your urologist will discuss suitable treatment options with you.

What is a urologist? What are some examples of urologic diseases or issues? Prostate enlargement: The prostate grows every day of your life. This growth causes narrowing of the urethra and blockage to urine flow. If you find yourself going to the bathroom more frequently or in the middle of the night, this could be the issue. Kidney stones : This painful issue is caused from either dehydration, diet problems or too much calcium excretion by the kidneys.

Back or flank pain, nausea and blood in urine are a couple warning signs. Urinary leakage: Incontinence is a serious bladder issue. An overactive bladder muscle, a weak sphincter or an overflowing bladder may cause unfortunate episodes of leakage.

Low testosterone : As men grow older, testosterone levels naturally decrease. But too much loss leads to hypogonadism, which is defined as testosterone levels below nanograms per deciliter. Low sex drive and fatigue are warning signs. Overactive bladder OAB : More than 20 million struggle with frequent urination , rushing to the bathroom and trips to the bathroom at night. The usual cause is the bladder spasming while filling with urine.

First Urologist Visit? What does a urologist do? For example: Problems when urinating Enlarged prostate Bladder issues Kidney stones Incontinence Erectile dysfunction Injuries Male infertility or hormone problems Some cancers, including prostate cancer , kidney cancer , and bladder cancer What happens during your first visit? Go to your appointment with a full bladder! Fill out a questionnaire about your symptoms Answer questions about your medical history Provide a list of your medications, including any supplements and herbs you may take Your doctor might also: Give you a physical exam Perform a digital rectal exam DRE on men with prostate issues Perform a pelvic exam on women Order tests urine, blood, scans, swabs to test for infections Perform a cough stress test if you have urinary incontinence Although some of these tests may be uncomfortable, they can provide important information about your condition.

Go to Top. Review your symptoms with your urologist and ask any questions you have. A staff member will record your detailed medical history so that our providers are able to have a complete overview of your health. A list of any medications you are taking should be included with this information and updated each time you see a physician. Be sure to mention any supplements or herbs you are taking as well. For more information about what to expect during your first visit with a urologist, download our guide: Steps to Prepare for Your Upcoming Urology Specialists Appointment.

Included in this guide is a list of questions to ask your doctor and the potential diagnostic services they may recommend. The urologist will perform a physical exam that may include the following:.

Once your doctor has examined you, they will discuss their findings and possible solutions. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or a surgical procedure. Make notes when your physician reviews a treatment plan with you.

Now is the time to ask any clarifying questions regarding what you have just been told. Remember, if you are unsure of something, just ask!