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People who suffer from urological problems feel the frustration these issues bring. However, with the right care, you can see a considerable difference in just a short amount of time. Urologic problems are very common and can be managed easily. So, if you are suffering from any of the symptoms listed below, consult a urologist to get treatment. In this blog, we will highlight the most common urological problems individuals may face and their symptoms.
Synopsis
Spot Urologic Problems: Top 5 Common Issues and Their Symptoms
1. Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine. It is caused by many factors, including age, weakened pelvic floor muscles, or health issues like diabetes.
Many women face issues controlling their bladder post-childbirth, especially those in their late 30s and older. As childbirth weakens the pelvic floor muscles, simple activities like laughing, coughing, sneezing, or jumping can cause urine leakage in new mothers. Being overweight can make this worse too.
Exercises like pelvic floor exercises and lifestyle changes like reducing weight, drinking less caffeine, and avoiding alcohol can help you manage urinary incontinence. See a urologist if the condition persists as this may disrupt your daily life activities and bring extreme discomfort.
Symptoms
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Stress Incontinence - unintentional urine leakage during laughing or sneezing
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Urge Incontinence - a sudden urge to urinate and leakage before reaching the toilet
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Overflow Incontinence - bladder is full and inability to empty the bladder
2. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys and can affect the entire urinary tract, from the kidneys to the bladder. The symptoms of kidney stones often develop when urine becomes too concentrated, causing minerals to crystallise and stick together.
Diet, being overweight and obese, certain medical conditions, as well as supplements and medications can cause kidney stones. NOT DRINKING ENOUGH WATER also raises your risk of making urine more concentrated and developing kidney stones.
For smaller stones, you need not worry as they generally pass on their own through urine. Bigger kidney stones, however, will need intervention by a urologist.
Symptoms
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Severe pain in the side and back
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Pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin
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Pain during urination
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Pink, red, or brown urine
3. Urinary Tract Infection (UTIs)
Another prevalent issue is urinary tract infections (UTIs) that trigger urinary incontinence in men, including the bladder, kidneys, and urethra. Women are more prone to UTIs than men. Some women experience recurrent UTIs and need medical management.
Dietary adjustments like increasing water intake and avoiding certain foods and drinks are beneficial in this matter. Your urologist may also provide antibiotics to treat UTIs.
Symptoms
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Cloudy or smelly urine
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Burning sensation during urination
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Frequent urgent need to urinate
4. Overactive Bladder
Individuals with an overactive bladder experience the urge to urinate too frequently, especially during night-time hours. This condition becomes more common as you age and can affect both genders. While we aren’t sure about the exact cause of any urologic disease, lifestyle factors like excessive caffeine consumption, diuretic medications, and drinking habits may contribute.
Physical therapy and nerve therapy can be effective in managing an overactive bladder problem.
Symptoms
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Sudden, strong need to urinate immediately
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Leakage or incontinence
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Frequent urination
5. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is an enlargement of the prostate gland and is thus commonly called an enlarged prostate. A non-cancerous condition, BPH affects most men as they age and is the cause behind prostate symptoms and incontinence in men.
Our urologists manage this condition with various means which may include - medications, minimally invasive procedures (TURP or UroLift), or surgery. Some men may not require any treatment at all.
Symptoms
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Frequent urination, mainly at night
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Weak urine flow
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Urgency to urinate
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Trouble starting or stopping urination
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A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
Risk Factors for Urological Problems
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Antibiotic Use: Some antibiotics for other infections can disrupt vaginal flora in women and give rise to UTI-causing bacteria.
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Compromised Immune System: Conditions like diabetes weaken the immune system, making urologic problems like incontinence more likely to occur.
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Menopause: Hormone changes during menopause can increase the risk of urological problems.
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Previous Urologic Infection: If you have suffered from urinary tract infections (UTIs) previously, your chances of getting it again are higher.
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Sexual Activity: Frequent, unprotected sex and multiple partners can increase the risk of urological infections.
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Biological Sex: Compared to men, women are more prone to UTIs due to their shorter urethra, which is closer to the anus.
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Spermicide Use: Using spermicide with a diaphragm for birth control is linked to UTIs.
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Urinary Tract Problems: Stones or structural issues can slow urine drainage and allow bacteria to grow.
Urological issues are significant health concerns and should not be ignored. Our top urologist in Salem can help you with various treatment options based on your condition. So, if you suffer from any urinary tract issues or urologic problems, we at Manipal Hospitals Salem are there to help you receive the best care possible!
FAQ's
Causes of urinary incontinence are:
- Overactive bladder
- Enlarged prostate
- Pregnancy or childbirth
- Diabetes
- Bladder muscles that become weak
- When sphincter muscles that support the urethra become weak
- Weak bladder muscles
- Neuromuscular problems
- Overhydration
Urinary Tract Infections or UTIs are the most common urological problem. Women are more prone to UTIs with about 60% of women experiencing a UTI at some point in their lives. In men, the prevalence of UTI is around 12%.
Here are some tips to help you prevent UTIs and maintain your urologic health:
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Have enough water - hydration can help flush out bacteria through urine.
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Clean yourself from front to back - this prevents bacteria from the anal region to enter the urethra.
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Urinate after sexual intercourse to help flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra.
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Avoid the use of harsh soaps, bubble baths, or feminine hygiene products.
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Empty your bladder completely every time - it can help prevent your risk of UTIs.
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