If you’re over the age of 50, should a trip to the urologist be on the horizon?
It’s a question many of us face, and the Riverside Urology team is here to weigh in with advice, warning signs and helpful information.
“As we age, it’s important to start regularly checking in with your physician, especially if there is a specific area of concern for you,” says Henry M. Prillaman, M.D., a urologist with Riverside Urology Specialists. “Urinary incontinence, pain during intercourse and sexual dysfunction are just a few examples of issues that would warrant a visit with a urologist.”
What is a urologist?
First things first: What is a urologist and how can they help?
“A urologist offers specialized urinary tract care for males and females – including the urethra, bladder, penis and ureters,” says Dr. Prillaman. “We cover a wide range of issues, from kidney stones to urologic cancers to male reproductive organs.”
Urologists can be seen for conditions at any age, including male infertility issues, testosterone deficiencies or low sex drive.
Signs you should see a urologist
Warning signs of a urologic issue in your 50s can vary from patient to patient – and from male to female – but they typically start with one common dominator: it’s all about the pee.
Urinary incontinence, prostate issues and kidney stones can cause the following warning signs:
- Blood in urine or semen
- Constant need to urinate
- Difficulty urinating or interrupted urine stream
- Trouble emptying the bladder during urination
- Weak urine stream
Additional warning symptoms of a urologic issue include:
- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
- Pain during intercourse
- Painful ejaculation
- Pelvic pain
Early detection is key for all urologic cancers and reduces your chances of additional health complications. Prostate cancer screenings are recommended for men between the ages of 55-69 with a PSA blood test.
Know your family history
If your parents or siblings have previously had a urologic issue, it’s best to make an appointment with a specialist to discuss your health history and any potential concerns.
“It’s always best to come in and get established as a patient before there is a problem,” says Dr. Prillaman. “Prostate cancer and many other urologic conditions have a genetic link, so the sooner we know to watch for an issue, the better prepared we can be.”
Make an appointment with the Riverside urology team
The urology team at Riverside Health System is here for all your urologic needs. Visit Riverside Urology to find the most convenient location and schedule an appointment with Dr. Prillaman today.
