Tips for prevention and treatment of common urologic problems.
There are many common urologic problems, all of them related to the process of carrying urine out of the body. In women and men they involved the urinary tract, and they also involve the reproductive organs in men. According to William Gans, MD, a urologist with Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Urological & Kidney Center, some of the more common problems include urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder problems such as urinary incontinence and overactive bladder, and prostate issues including BPH (enlarged prostate) and testicular pain in men. “Depending on the condition and possible severity of it, we initially are able to use medication and lifestyle modifications as treatment alone. Oftentimes, however, urine tests, lab work and imaging studies are needed to diagnose and further evaluate problems,” says Vaish. “If you notice abnormal functioning when you urinate, or see blood or other changes in your urine, it’s time to seek medical attention.” To ward off possible urologic problems, the American Urological Association offers these tips: Stay hydrated, but know the amount of water you need to drink to stay properly hydrated varies depending on your overall health, how active you are, and more Drink cranberry juice to prevent UTIs Limit salt and caffeine intake Maintain a healthy weight Don’t smoke Strengthen the muscles of the pelvic area with Kegel exercises Gans agrees that these are good preventive guidelines for everyone to follow for better urological health, but stresses that what works for one person may not work for another due to variations in overall health and activity level. If a urologic problem does develop, our comprehensive team of urologic specialists with Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Urological & Kidney Center can treat general urologic conditions to the more complex conditions such as kidney, prostate, or bladder cancer. Cleveland Clinic’s Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute ranked #1 in the U.S. for urology by U.S. News & World Report. Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Center is honored to provide the nation’s leading urologic care to South Florida.