What conditions does a urologist treat?

Under normal circumstances, urology departments can diagnose and treat conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), cystitis, prostatitis, pyelonephritis, kidney stones, and other related diseases. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific details are as follows:

1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a common urological condition in elderly men, primarily caused by an enlarged prostate gland that compresses the urethra, leading to symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and urgency. Urologists can make a definitive diagnosis by evaluating the size, shape, and texture of the prostate, along with the patient's symptoms, and then develop an appropriate treatment plan.

2. Cystitis

Cystitis is usually caused by bacterial infection, but may also result from non-bacterial factors such as drug irritation or chemical cystitis. Common symptoms include frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination. Urologists use tests such as urinalysis and bacterial culture to identify the causative pathogen and provide targeted anti-infective treatment.

3. Prostatitis

Prostatitis may be caused by bacterial infection, non-bacterial factors, or autoimmune responses. Symptoms may include urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria, and pain in the perineal area. Urologists can confirm the diagnosis through tests including routine prostate fluid analysis, bacterial culture, and ultrasound, and provide appropriate anti-inflammatory and analgesic treatments.

4. Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is an upper urinary tract infection within the spectrum of urinary system infections, primarily caused by bacterial invasion. Patients may experience fever, chills, flank pain, urinary frequency, and urgency. Urologists use urinalysis, bacterial culture, ultrasound, or CT scans to identify the pathogen and location of infection, and administer appropriate antimicrobial therapy.

5. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are solid crystalline formations in the kidneys, typically resulting from the oversaturation of substances such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid in the urine. Symptoms may include flank pain, hematuria, and urinary frequency. Urologists use imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT, or X-ray to determine the size, location, and composition of the stones, and formulate individualized treatment plans, including medication, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), or ureteroscopic stone removal.

To prevent urological diseases, it is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, moderate exercise, adequate rest, and good personal hygiene.