Urology is often regarded as the primary specialty for treating prostate cancer, the second most common cancer in men after lung cancer. However, its scope extends far beyond this disease.
Dr. Luis Javier López Montoya, coordinator of urology at Clínica CES, explains more about what this specialty entails.
It is important to understand that urology is a medical specialty that treats and studies diseases of the urinary system and the male and female genital systems, as well as the male reproductive system. The diseases it focuses on are those affecting organs such as the kidneys, the ureters (the ducts through which urine flows from the kidney to the bladder), the bladder, the prostate, the urethra (the duct through which urine is expelled from the bladder to the outside), male and female genital organs, the pelvic floor, and the retroperitoneum (the tissue lining the abdominal wall and covering most of the abdominal organs).
What Are the Most Common Conditions Treated in Urology?
The most common conditions include urinary infections and stones, benign and malignant tumors, prostate diseases, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse into the genital area.
Additionally, it addresses sexual dysfunction issues, problems with erections, libido or sexual desire, and ejaculation.
A specialty addressed with a comprehensive approach
With women, urology works closely with gynecology, especially when pelvic floor problems are diagnosed, which are generally associated with aging, pregnancy, and pelvic surgeries that affect the urinary system.
For men, the primary associated specialty is surgery, as many conditions require surgical treatment and joint scheduling of procedures. Medical management involves internal medicine, sexology, psychology, and in some cases endocrinology, due to hormonal and sexual disorders.
When Should You See a Urologist?
– When experiencing prostate-related symptoms such as changes in urinary patterns, changes in urine flow, or difficulty urinating or holding urine. These typically appear in men after age 40, when the prostate naturally enlarges, causing some obstruction or bladder changes.
– If you notice blood in your urine or experience urinary retention for any reason. In such cases, visit an emergency room.
– If you feel discomfort, burning, or stinging while urinating, an increased frequency of urination, or pain in the lower pelvis or urethral area.
