Finding the best Tampa urologist is important when facing concerns about the urinary tract for either gender, or the reproductive tract in men. The ‘genitourinary’ system, as it’s called, is very intricate and requires multidisciplinary skills, knowledge, and experience for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
What is a Urologist?
A urologist is a surgical specialist who can diagnose and treat complications that arise from the urinary tract or reproductive tract. It’s important to note that while a urologist can treat both genders’ urinary tracts, they can only treat the male reproductive tract.
What Does Urology Treat?
Since the genitourinary system is very intricate, there are many areas where problems can occur. Some of these categories include:
- Prostate Cancer
- Genitourinary Tumors
- Renal (Kidney) Failure, Transplant, Disease, or Insufficiency
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Sexual Dysfunctions and Infertility
- Trauma (Especially following accidents)
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Congenital Anomalies
- Calculi – Kidney or Ureteral Stones
- Obstructive Uropathy
There are eight urology subspecialty areas: Pediatric Urology, Female Urology, Urologic Oncology, Renal Transplantation, Urinary Tract Stones, Neurourology, Male Infertility, and Erectile Dysfunction. You should generally seek out a specialist with experience and training based on your specific requirement.
Kidney insufficiency and disease are one of the most common reasons to visit a urologist. Unfortunately, some forms of kidney disease are becoming more prevalent. Over 20 million Americans have some form of chronic kidney disease.
Urinary tract issues are another common reason to visit a urologist. These issues include both kidney and ureteral stones, but do not include gallstones. Urinary tract infections, meanwhile, are one of the most common bacterial infections in the US.
Signs You May Need to Visit a Urologist
The signs and symptoms of urinary tract issues are similar for men and women.
Incontinence – Accidents (urine leakage), especially frequent occurrences, may be a sign that something is wrong in the urinary tract.
Avoidance of Sexual Intercourse – Since sex can trigger overactive bladders to leak, many men and women avoid the situation altogether.
Pressure or Heaviness – If you are feeling a persistent, constant pressure near your bladder, kidneys, or urethra which eases when you lie down, this could be a sign that something is wrong.
Urologists do not treat issues with female reproductive systems, as that specialty is designated to gynecologists. For men’s reproductive systems, consider visiting a urologist if experiencing any of the following:
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Blood in the Urine
- A Testicular Mass
- Lower Abdominal Pain
- Lowered Sexual Desire
- Difficulty Urinating
Speak with your primary physician with any questions or concerns you may have. Your primary physician will know if you need a referral to a urologist.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Urologist
Since there are so many possible problems which can happen in the genitourinary system, it’s important for your specialist to be knowledgeable in multiple fields. These fields can include internal medicine, gynecology, and pediatrics, among others.
Here are some considerations to think about when choosing a urologist:
Your Doctor’s Qualifications
- Board Certified by the American Board of Urology
- Graduated from an approved medical school
- Completed a minimum of 5 years in an ACGME accredited residency
- Trained in the specialty you need
Your Preferences
- Are you more comfortable with a male or female doctor?
- Are you willing to drive long distances to a credible doctor, or would you prefer to stay local?
- Have any of your friends or family had experiences with a particular doctor?
Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health
Finding the Best Tampa Urologist is easy! Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health’s Urology Department features experienced and highly trained specialists as well as the most up-to-date equipment available.
Consultations, diagnostics, and cutting edge treatments are all available for malignant and benign issues. Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health’s Urology Department offers services in the following areas:
- Bladder Cancer
- Bladder Reconstruction
- Erectile Dysfunction and Female Sexual Dysfunction
- Laparoscopy
- Laser Prostatic Surgery
- Male and Female Urinary Incontinence
- Prostate Cancer
- Renal Carcinoma
- Robotic Laproscopic Surgery
- Urinary Stone Management
- Urology Oncology
You can visit one of our three convenient Tampa-area Urology Departments for all of your questions and concerns – Zephyrhills, Wesley Chapel, or North Tampa. Schedule an appointment today by calling 813-979-7733. You can also Request an Appointment online for non-urgent medical problems. We look forward to helping you!