If the prostate gland becomes inflamed or infected, it is termed prostatitis. Men experiencing this condition may face challenges with urination or difficulties in achieving or sustaining an erection, often feeling discomfort in areas such as the rectum, penis, testicles, and lower back. Although prostatitis is more commonly seen in older men, it can affect males of all ages. In some cases, the inflammation or infection may resolve relatively quickly, while others with more severe irritation might need to see a urologist for further assessment.
What Causes Prostatitis?
Prostatitis is frequently the result of a bacterial infection, which can occur when urine enters the prostate. Trauma in the pelvic region might also harm nerves in the urinary tract, and at times, the cause of prostate inflammation or irritation remains unclear. Prolonged use of a urinary catheter, bladder or urethra infections, and a weakened immune system can elevate the risk of developing prostatitis.
The Importance of Seeing a Urologist
Attention, men and the women who care for them! It’s essential for men to maintain their health as they age by having regular screenings to catch potential issues early. The prostate, along with urinary and sexual functions, changes over time. Finding a urologist you trust can help establish a strong healthcare relationship. Starting around age 40, men should schedule visits to a urologist and continue with annual checkups to support their overall health.
Role of a Urologist
Urologists address both male and female urinary tract issues. For men, they specialize in conditions involving the penis, testes, scrotum, and prostate. Regular visits to a urologist are crucial as men age, given that health issues can occur at any age. As urology is a surgical specialty, urologists can offer extensive information on a variety of health concerns. If you have health-related questions, don’t hesitate to ask your urologist for guidance on the best treatment options.
Common Urological Issues in Men
Men with a family history of cancers affecting the prostate, testicles, kidneys, or others should consider starting urologist visits around age 40. A detailed medical history and screening exam will help identify any risks. Confirm with your insurance whether you need a referral from your primary care physician before making an appointment with a urologist.
- Prostate Cancer Screenings: These are crucial for detecting any irregularities in the prostate. Prostate cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among men but is often treatable. Symptoms may include difficulty urinating, frequent urges, blood in urine, or issues with erections.
- Testicular Cancer Screenings: These help identify any lumps or growths on the testicles and may also reveal additional signs such as early puberty, lower back pain, or breast growth and tenderness.
- Kidney Stones: These form when chemicals in urine crystallize. Initially small, they can grow larger and may cause severe discomfort, nausea/vomiting, blood in urine, difficulty urinating, or frequent urges. Risk factors include dehydration, recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary tract obstructions, or a family history of kidney stones.
Advancements in Urological Technology:
As technology evolves, we can now provide advanced treatment options. If surgery is necessary, discuss with your physician to determine the most suitable procedure for your case.
- Focal One for Prostate Cancer: This cutting-edge technology uses high-intensity focused ultrasound to target localized prostate cancer, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue and reducing side effects.
- Erectile Dysfunction: Alongside traditional medications and injections, Saint John’s Cancer Institute is exploring innovative treatments like penile stem cell injections and shockwave therapy.
- Robotic Surgery for Urinary Obstruction: Surgical procedures for urinary obstructions can now be conducted robotically, using small incisions and advanced surgical equipment for greater precision.
Attention, Men – Recognize These Symptoms!
If you encounter any of the following symptoms, consult a physician for evaluation. While some may not indicate serious issues, it’s essential to have them checked to ensure any problems are identified early.
- Testicular mass
- Foul-smelling urine
- Blood in urine
- Erectile dysfunction
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Guidance for Selecting a Surgeon for Prostate Cancer Surgery
If you’re contemplating surgery for prostate cancer, you likely want to identify the most qualified surgeon for the job. Radical prostatectomy is a complex procedure that demands not just skill, but also extensive experience obtained through numerous surgeries, starting from the training phase and advancing under the mentorship of skilled surgeons.
The most proficient prostate surgeons typically focus exclusively on prostate procedures and perform a high volume of these surgeries annually.
To assist you in finding the right surgeon, we’ve compiled a checklist with input from three experts:
- Seek a high-volume center that frequently performs these procedures. This is often an academic medical institution. A facility that excels in this type of surgery is likely to have well-trained staff, including nurses who specialize in the care of recovery patients post-radical prostatectomy. Edward Schaeffer, M.D., Ph.D., Chair of Urology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, recommends two resources: the National Cancer Institute’s website, which highlights innovative cancer treatments, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) website, which identifies member institutions known for their comprehensive cancer care.
- Look for collaborative care across specialties. Leading centers have multidisciplinary teams comprising urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and pathologists working together to determine the best treatment approach for prostate cancer. Some patients may benefit more from radiation than surgery, so it’s essential to discuss all options with specialists before making a decision. The multidisciplinary model ensures that a team of experts evaluates your case rather than relying on a single opinion, leading to a more comprehensive treatment plan.
- Inquire about the surgeon’s outcomes. Does the surgeon track their results over time? The most reputable surgeons follow their patients long-term, allowing them to provide insight into whether PSA levels remain undetectable, if patients experience any incontinence, and whether erectile function has returned either naturally or with assistance.
- Validate the surgeon’s reputation. According to urologic oncologist Trinity Bivalacqua, M.D., Ph.D., at Johns Hopkins, the credibility of the institution, department, and surgeon is crucial. Consider asking the surgeon for references from former patients willing to share their experiences, as this can indicate a surgeon’s skill and commitment to patient satisfaction.
- Are current patients available to share their experiences? Hearing firsthand accounts of recovery can offer valuable insights.
- Determine the surgeon’s experience. The number of radical prostatectomies performed should ideally be in the hundreds.
- Consult multiple doctors for recommendations. (Be aware that some doctors may favor specialists within their practice group; it’s wise to seek opinions across different practices.)
- Be cautious with online reviews and advertisements. Schaeffer points out that the authenticity of online feedback can be questionable. Reviews may come from patients, friends of the surgeon, or competitors, leading to misleading information. Urologist Stacy Loeb, M.D., M.Sc., from NYU, emphasizes that online reviews often lack reliability; thus, personal recommendations from other patients and local doctors are preferred. Engaging with prostate cancer support groups can also provide valuable insights.
- Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek a second opinion. Surgeons understand that patients will inquire and seek further opinions frequently. Your pursuit of information shows diligence, not disrespect. If the roles were reversed, most doctors would pursue the best surgical option for their health needs.
By following these guidelines, you can make a more informed decision about your prostate cancer surgery and ensure you find a competent surgeon who meets your needs.
