Urologic conditions treated in Houston and East Texas

Urologic conditions are medical conditions that affect the urinary system and the male reproductive system. These conditions include urinary tract infections, bladder conditions, kidney conditions, and erectile dysfunction, among others. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, injuries, genetic disorders, and lifestyle choices. Symptoms of urologic conditions may include pain or discomfort, difficulty urinating, blood in urine, and sexual dysfunction. 

Treatment options vary depending on the specific condition and may include medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes. It's important to see a St. Luke’s Health urologist if you suspect you have a urologic condition, as early detection and treatment can improve outcomes.

Conditions treated at St. Luke’s Health

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Bladder infections
• Kidney infections
• Kidney stones
• Bladder stones
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland)
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
• Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
• Peyronie's disease (curvature of the penis)
• Priapism (persistent erection)
• Overactive bladder
• Urinary incontinence
• Interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder inflammation)
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Hydrocele (fluid buildup in the scrotum)
• Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
• Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis)
• Orchitis (inflammation of the testicles)

What are common causes of urologic conditions?

• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can affect different parts of the urinary tract, causing conditions such as urinary tract infections, bladder infections, and prostatitis.

• Kidney stones: These hard mineral deposits can form in the kidneys and cause severe pain and other symptoms when they move down the urinary tract.

• Enlarged prostate: Also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), this condition affects many men as they age and can cause problems with urination.

• Cancer: Urologic cancers, such as bladder cancer, kidney cancer, and prostate cancer, can develop in the urinary or reproductive systems.

• Genetics: Some urologic conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease and hereditary prostate cancer, can be caused by genetic mutations.

• Lifestyle factors: Certain habits or lifestyle choices, such as smoking, obesity, and poor diet, can increase the risk of developing urologic conditions.

• Trauma: Injuries to the urinary or reproductive systems, such as those caused by accidents or surgery, can lead to urologic problems.

What are common symptoms of urological conditions?

The symptoms of urologic conditions can vary widely depending on the specific condition and the individual affected. However, some common symptoms of urologic conditions include:

1. Pain or discomfort: This can occur in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or back, and may be dull or sharp.

2. Difficulty urinating: This can include a weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination, or a feeling of urgency to urinate.

3. Blood in urine: This can be visible or microscopic and may be a sign of a serious condition such as bladder cancer.

4. Sexual dysfunction: This can include difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, decreased libido, or pain during sex.

5. Incontinence: This can include the involuntary loss of urine or feces.

6. Swelling or lumps: This can occur in the testicles, prostate, or other parts of the urinary or reproductive systems.

7. Fever: This can indicate an infection.

It's important to seek medical attention with a urologist if you experience any of these symptoms, as they can be signs of a serious urologic condition that requires prompt treatment.