Quick Signs to See a Urologist
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Frequent, painful, or difficult urination
Kidney stone symptoms, such as severe flank or abdominal pain
Erectile dysfunction, fertility concerns, or other men's health issues
Testicular pain or swelling, or prostate-related symptoms such as weak urine flow or frequent nighttime urination
When caring for our health, we sometimes feel hesitant or unsure about when to consult a specialist. Urologists specialize in diagnosing and treating urologic conditions and disorders related to the male urinary system and reproductive organs.
In this post, we'll guide you through the signs and symptoms that should help you determine when to see a urologist. While urology services are available for both men and women, this article focuses primarily on men’s urological health.
Signs & Symptoms to See a Urologist
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections can affect anyone, but when they become recurrent or severe, it’s a strong indicator that you should consult a urologist. UTIs are characterized by symptoms like frequent urination, painful urination, and cloudy or bloody urine. While antibiotics are typically used to treat UTIs, seeing a urologist can help identify the underlying causes or contributing factors that may be making you more prone to these infections.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, or the difficulty getting or keeping an erection., is a common concern for men. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including physical, psychological, and lifestyle-related issues. If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, it’s important to consult a urologist. They can evaluate the root cause of your condition and provide appropriate treatment options, such as medication, therapy, or surgical procedures.
Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
Seeing blood in your urine is an a symptom that should be evaluated promptly that requires immediate attention from a urologist. Hematuria can result from a variety of conditions, ranging from urinary tract infections to more serious issues like kidney stones, bladder cancer, or prostate problems. A urologist can perform diagnostic tests to identify the cause of hematuria and recommend the necessary treatment.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are small, hard mineral deposits that can form in the kidneys. Symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain when they move through the urinary tract. If you’re experiencing severe flank pain, pain in your lower abdomen, pelvic pain, or pain during urination, it might be due to kidney stones. A urologist can help diagnose and treat kidney stones, offering relief and preventing further complications.
After a first kidney stone, prevention is important. About half of people who have one kidney stone may develop another in the future. A urologist may recommend preventive testing, including blood work and a 24-hour urine test, to look for factors that increase stone risk and guide diet, hydration, or medication recommendations.
Prostate Issues
Prostate problems are common in men, especially as they age. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that plays a crucial role in reproductive and urinary health. If you notice symptoms like difficulty urinating, frequent urination (especially at night), or blood in the semen, it’s time to see a urologist. These symptoms may be related to prostate conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or prostate cancer.
Testicular Pain and Swelling
Testicular pain or swelling can be caused by several conditions, including testicular torsion, epididymitis, hydrocele, or a hernia. Any unexplained discomfort or change in the size and shape of your testicles should prompt a visit to a urologist. These specialists can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment options, including medication or surgery.
Frequent Urination
Urinating frequently can have several underlying causes, including urinary tract infections, an overactive bladder, or an enlarged prostate (BPH). If you find yourself constantly rushing to the restroom, it’s crucial to consult a urologist. They can determine the root cause of your symptoms and provide you with a personalized treatment plan.
Bladder Issues/Incontinence
Urinary incontinence, or involuntary urine leakage due to weak bladder control, can be a source of embarrassment and discomfort. Whether you’re experiencing stress urinary incontinence (leakage during physical activity or coughing) or urge incontinence (sudden, uncontrollable urges to urinate), a urologist can help diagnose the type of incontinence and recommend appropriate management strategies, which may include pelvic floor exercises, medications, or surgery.
Fertility Concerns
If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, it’s advisable to consult a urologist for a fertility evaluation. Male infertility can result from issues such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or structural problems in your reproductive system. A urologist can perform tests to identify the specific causes of infertility and propose treatments or lifestyle changes to enhance your chances of fathering a child.
Sexual Health Issues
Male sexual health concerns beyond just erectile dysfunction may also warrant a visit to a urologist. Hormonal imbalances, including low testosterone, can affect energy, libido, mood, and sexual function. When appropriate, a urologist can evaluate hormone levels and discuss treatment options, including testosterone replacement therapy. Other concerns can include premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, or Peyronie’s disease, which causes the penis to curve abnormally.
Urologists are well-equipped to assess and address a wide range of sexual health issues, offering solutions that can significantly improve your overall well-being and quality of life.
Schedule an Appointment with a Urologist in Houston
If you’re experiencing urinary symptoms, kidney stone pain, prostate concerns, testicular pain or swelling, fertility issues, or sexual health concerns, a CLS Health urologist can help identify the cause and recommend the right next step. CLS Health offers comprehensive urology care at multiple locations throughout the Greater Houston area, making it easier to find expert care close to home.
Schedule an appointment today to get answers, discuss treatment options, and take a proactive step toward better long-term health.
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Common Urologist FAQs
A urologist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive system. This includes urinary problems, kidney stones, prostate issues, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, testicular pain or swelling, bladder concerns, and certain cancers, including prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular cancer.
A man should see a urologist if he has blood in the urine, frequent or painful urination, weak urine flow, trouble emptying the bladder, erectile dysfunction, testicular pain or swelling, kidney stone symptoms, fertility concerns, or prostate-related symptoms. Men may also need routine prostate screening based on age, risk factors, and family history.
Yes, especially if frequent urination is new, worsening, disrupts sleep, or occurs with pain, urgency, weak urine flow, or blood in the urine. Frequent urination can be related to urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, enlarged prostate, diabetes, or other conditions. A urologist can help identify the cause and recommend treatment.
Blood in the urine should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider. It may be caused by a urinary tract infection, kidney stone, enlarged prostate, injury, or, in some cases, cancer. Seek urgent care right away if blood in the urine occurs with severe pain, fever, inability to urinate, large clots, dizziness, or weakness.
Yes. Urologists commonly evaluate and treat erectile dysfunction. ED can be related to blood flow, hormone levels, nerve function, medications, stress, or underlying conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, hormone evaluation, devices, injections, or other therapies depending on the cause.
Yes. Urologists diagnose and treat kidney stones. Treatment depends on the stone’s size, location, and symptoms. Some stones pass on their own with hydration and pain control, while others may require medication, shock wave therapy, ureteroscopy, or surgery. A urologist can also recommend testing to help prevent future stones.
