The top 3 questions urologists get asked by men the most
An excellent way for men to understand their urological health is to ask questions. As a urologist, men have consulted my opinion, asking thousands of questions. Often, the questions men have can be awkward to ask or discuss. But urologists are well-trained with plenty of experience to answer these types of questions.
As uncomfortable as it may be for men to inquire about these questions, urologists, who are also men’s health experts, are the best sources for providing accurate information reassuring and educating men about these topics.
Here are three common questions I get asked by men the most and my answer to each:
“I’ve noticed changes in my urination. What could the problem be?”
Changes in urinary habits are common in men, especially as we age. Urinary frequency or that “gotta go right now” feeling, frequent nighttime urination, a weak urine stream or difficulty starting a urine stream, and urinary leakage are typical symptoms men experience, most caused by prostate enlargement. It’s common for men past age 50 to have prostate enlargement, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. BPH is not prostate cancer. It’s relatively harmless but more of a nuisance or quality of life issue.
Medication options are available to treat the symptoms of BPH, depending on how much they affect a man’s lifestyle. If these medicines prove ineffective, I could suggest other procedures like UroLift, which involves the use of tiny implants to lift the enlarged prostate tissue and prevent it from blocking the urethra. TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) can also be considered as an option for larger prostates.
Every man is different, and what works for one man may not for another man. A thorough discussion with your urologist can help you decide which prostate procedure to use.
“Is sex possible after prostate cancer?”
Prostate cancer does not have to end your sex life. On the contrary, an active sex life is a vital part of life, and sexual activity can help men (and women) stay healthy by reducing stress, boosting sleep, easing aches and pains, improving physical fitness, and improving heart health. I’ve developed the SMART surgery technique to preserve sexual function and urinary continence.
Men undergoing aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation may have difficulty reaching orgasm or achieving an erection. However, talk to your urologist about your concerns. They can prescribe ED medications, recommend lifestyle changes, or refer men to an expert in sexual health or intimacy.
“I’m having problems getting or keeping an erection…why?”
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is another common symptom of aging for men. But, ED should be taken seriously as it could be a warning symptom of heart disease, high blood pressure, or even prostate cancer. It could also be a symptom of stress and anxiety, depression, or a relationship conflict with your partner.
It’s good to know that ED can often be treated successfully. Consulting a urologist is a wise choice to receive the best assistance since they are specifically trained to diagnose and treat this condition. The first step is to determine the underlying cause of ED. The urologist will inquire about your medical history, sexual history, and perform a physical examination. They may also order diagnostic tests and ask about your mental health. These results allow the root cause to be determined more quickly, and the treatment plan can be tailored accordingly. Depending on the cause of ED will determine the treatment. For instance, if it’s due to a cardiac issue, the urologist may prescribe PDE type-5 inhibitors (like Viagra or Cialis) to enhance blood flow to the penis. If mental health problems contribute to ED, a referral to a therapist is recommended.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.