Common male urology problems

Urological problems encompass a variety of conditions that relate to the process of carrying urine in and out of the body, namely the bladder and the genitals. Urology problems can cause anything from discomfort to infertility. As men age, the prostate may become inflamed or enlarged. The most common symptoms of urology problems include a high frequency and urgency of urination, pain, and blood or discharge in the urine. These symptoms frequently signal a problem in the urinary tract. Common male urology problems include:

• Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH) – BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. It affects more than 50% of American males over the age of 50. BPH causes difficulty urinating and a major symptom is feeling the need to urinate often, particularly at night. If it does not get better in time, BPH can be treated with medications or in extreme cases, surgery.
• Prostatitis – Another non-cancerous inflammation of the prostate, prostatitis can cause difficulty or painful urination, fever, chills, back pain, or pain in the genitals. Typically, antibiotics can treat prostatitis but in severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Infertility – Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive within one year of unprotected intercourse. Artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, and adoption are all great alternatives if you are having trouble conceiving. You and your partner should see a doctor if you have concerns about your fertility.
• Prostate Cancer – Age, race, family history, and diet affect men’s risk of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer begins with no symptoms but as it grows can cause trouble urinating, high frequency of urination, or pain or burning while urinating.
• Testosterone deficiency – Testosterone deficiencies occur when a man is not producing enough testosterone. There are many factors that can cause testosterone deficiency. With insufficient testosterone levels, a man can experience a loss of sex drive, erectile dysfunction, depression, and difficulty concentrating.
• Erectile dysfunction – The inability to achieve or maintain an erection, erectile dysfunction affects about 10% of all men. Its causes include emotional or psychological factors, health disorders, smoking or alcohol abuse, hormone deficiencies and more.
• Incontinence – Accidental or involuntary loss of urine, incontinence itself is not a urology problem but a symptom of many of the common urology disorders.

If you are having difficulties with urinating or pain in the genital region or believe you are experiencing any of the problems detailed above, you should see a doctor. It is best to treat urological problems before they progress.