Urological diseases in men, including conditions such as prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), kidney stones, and urinary tract infections, are becoming increasingly prevalent globally. Recent studies indicate that one in five men may experience some form of urological issue in their lifetime, with the incidence rising as the population ages. A variety of disorders affecting the male reproductive system and urinary tract are referred to as urological illnesses. Both general health and quality of life can be greatly impacted by these disorders. Hence, effective management and treatment options depend heavily on early detection.

To understand symptoms and how to identify these problems, we got in touch with Dr Shalabh Agrawal, Consultant – Urology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram who shares diagnostic techniques, and practical treatments for male urological illnesses.

Dr Shalabh Agrawal shares some common urological diseases. This includes:

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in older men. As the prostate enlarges, it can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to various urinary symptoms.

Among the cancers that affect men most frequently is prostate cancer. For treatment to be successful, early detection is essential. The key to controlling this illness is regular screening and symptom monitoring.

UTIs can result in severe discomfort and consequences even though they are less common in males than in women. Although they usually affect the bladder and urethra, they can occasionally have a serious impact on the kidneys.

The inability to get or keep an erection strong enough for sexual activity is known as ED. Although it can exist on its own, it frequently signals the presence of underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Hard deposits known as kidney stones are created when minerals and salts build up in the kidneys. As they travel through the urinary tract, they may cause excruciating pain and problems with urination.

An abrupt rise in the desire to urinate, particularly at night, maybe a sign of a UTI or BPH problem.

Pain in the lower abdomen, back, or vaginal area that occurs during urination might indicate a variety of urological disorders, such as kidney stones or infections.

In addition to being a common sign of BPH, difficulty initiating or sustaining a continuous stream of pee can also be an indication of other urinary tract blockages.

Blood in the urine, or hematuria, is a dangerous sign that may point to malignancy, kidney stones, or infections. If this symptom appears, you need to see a doctor very away.

Persistent difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection can point to ED and potentially more serious underlying health issues.

Significant weight loss without a clear cause can be a symptom of advanced prostate cancer or other serious conditions.

Dr Shalabh Agrawal shares that regular checkups with the doctor are essential for early identification of urological disease. Men should get prostate screenings regularly, especially those over 50.

PSA Examination

The amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood is determined by the PSA test. PSA levels that are elevated may be a sign of prostate cancer or other prostate disorders.

To assess the size and structure of the prostate gland and assist in identifying any abnormalities, a doctor does a DRE by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum.

A urinalysis tests urine for signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities, aiding in the diagnosis of UTIs, kidney stones, and other conditions.

Ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs provide detailed images of the urinary tract and reproductive organs, helping to identify stones, tumours, and other abnormalities.

Dr Shalabh Agrawal shares that many urological disorders can be effectively treated with medication; for example, BPH can be effectively treated with alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, while UTIs can be treated with antibiotics. Kidney stones and ED can be prevented and managed with dietary modifications, drinking more water, and engaging in regular exercise.

Shorter recovery periods are possible for illnesses like BPH and kidney stones when using minimally invasive techniques like shock wave lithotripsy, laser therapy, and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Surgical intervention may be required in severe situations; frequent operations include prostatectomy for advanced BPH or prostate cancer and nephrolithotomy for large kidney stones, he further explained.