Enlargement of the Prostate

Enlargement of the prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which the cells of the prostate gland begin to multiply, causing the prostate gland to swell. This swelling squeezes the urethra, limits the flow of urine and causes symptoms that can affect your quality of life. Enlargement of the prostate is more common in men above the age of 50 years. The signs and symptoms of this condition varies from one individual to the other, however, some major symptoms to be noticed are :

•     Frequent urge to urinate
•     Difficulty to start urination
•     Weak or interrupted urine stream
•     Inability to completely empty the bladder
•     Recurrent Urinary tract infection

Untreated BPH may lead to several other complications like urinary retention, bladder stones, bladder damage, kidney damage, UTIs etc.

Laser treatment for BPH

Prostate laser surgery is a popular choice of treatment to relieve the symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. The laser emits high intensity energy to shrink or remove the excess tissue that is blocking the urethra, so that the normal flow of urine can be restored. A scope is inserted through the penis tip into the urethra to remove the prostate tissue by ablation (melting) or enucleation (cutting). With laser treatment, there is lower risk of bleeding, minimal hospital stay,  faster recovery and immediate results without any side effects. Urologist India provides world class treatment for BPH using advanced laser treatment.

Blog Reviewed By: Dr N Anandan

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Painful Urination

 Causes of Painful Urination

A discomfort or pain or burning sensation during urination is often referred to as painful urination. The pain may stem from urethra, perineum, bladder. Though pain during urination is common, it can be due to a number of medical conditions.

    • Sexually Transmitted Infection

STIs affect the urinary tract and can cause burning or pain at the time of urination. Common STIs that are a cause of painful urination are- gonorrhoea, chlamydia and genital herpes.

    • Enlarged Prostate

An enlarged prostate is caused because of swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland. It can often lead to pain during urination.

    • Urinary Tract Infection

When excessive bacteria build up in the urinary tract it can cause UTI. Though UTI is common among women, men can be susceptible too.

    • Kidney Stones

Sometimes calcified deposits of natural material are formed inside the kidney, these are called kidney stones. When urine gets concentrated, the minerals crystallise and collect together to form stones. These stones then deposit near the ureter, blocking the flow of urine and causing pain.

    • Bladder Cancer

Abnormal cell development in the bladder is a cause of bladder cancer. Delayed treatment can further damage tissues and spread to other organs. A typical symptom of bladder cancer is painful urination.

    • Medications

Many medicines bring along with them certain side effects. It is important that you speak to your doctor about any such side effects and how to reduce them.

Prevention

The causes of painful urination are many, but fortunately, most of them are treatable. Sometimes simple changes in lifestyle can relieve you from the discomfort, such as:

• Avoid using scented laundry detergents and toiletries
• Make sure you use a condom when indulging in sexual intercourse
• Climate food that irritates the bladder, for instance, alcohol, caffeine, spicy food etc

If these remedies do not help and the problem persists, then you must not delay meeting a doctor. If it is a serious problem, early detection can greatly improve the chances of a complete recovery.

Blog Reviewed By: Dr N Anandan

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Low Testosterone Myths & Facts

Testosterone is a male sex hormone produced by the testicles that is responsible for sex drive and sperm production. It is also responsible for the development of the physical appearance, bone density, muscle mass, and deepening of the voice. It also helps maintain a normal mood. It is estimated that several million men are affected by low testosterone levels that lead them to have low energy levels, fatigue, decreased sex drive, and feelings of depression. 

Many misconceptions are surrounding the condition that needs to be debunked. This helps in bringing awareness among the population that helps them in getting appropriate, timely treatment.

The below mentioned are a few of the common myths about low testosterone levels:

MYTH #1 – Low testosterone is a normal part of aging

FACT - Testosterone levels indeed decrease with the increase in age. But the decreased levels should be in the normal range. Not all aged men will experience low testosterone levels. It is always suggested to get a blood test if noticing any symptoms concerning the condition.

MYTH#2 – The condition does not affect the younger men

FACT – Not True. The condition can develop at any age due to many reasons, such as damage to the testis or pituitary glands, chronic diseases, and cancer treatments.

MYTH#3 - Low testosterone only affects the man's libido

FACT - False. Apart from the low sex drive, many other symptoms affect the quality of life. Low energy levels, decreased bone density, weight gain, and mood swings are few among many that might hamper the daily activities.

MYTH#4 – Lifestyle changes do not affect low testosterone levels

FACT - Absolutely it does. Following a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and proper diet, help improve the level. It also helps to reduce sleep apnea, obesity, and diabetes that have a direct effect on the low testosterone.

MYTH#5 – Hormone replacement therapy is a quick fix solution to the problem

FACT - Hormone therapy might help to restore the sex drive and ease a few of the symptoms. But it is not a quick-fix solution. Men with low testosterone should always consult a doctor and stay under their supervision until the improvement in the levels is seen. Any treatment takes time to bring the desired results.

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Get the signal & treat it right

Ureteral stones are stones that are stuck in one of the ureters. Excess concentration of minerals and salts would cause stones, and the blockage would lead to severe pain. Most of the stones are calcium-based. 

Symptoms of ureteral stone 

If the stones are tiny, then it would pass through the urinary system. Whereas, the large stones that block the ureter or any of the kidney’s drainage tubes may show certain signs such as:

• Severe pain - there would be severe, intermittent pain in the back and under the lower ribs. This would gradually spread to the lower abdomen as well
• Blood - there could be a sudden presence of blood in the urine 
• Sickness - fever and chills would be common for people with stones. This would lead to nausea and vomiting as well
• Urination - there will be a lot of struggle to urinate properly. At times there would be an urgency to urinate and becomes difficult to control 

Treatment of ureteral stone 

The most common test for ureteral stone would include ultrasound and CT scans. These tests would help to diagnose location, number, size of the stone, and degree of obstruction to the urinary tract, and status of degree function. The treatment would depend on the size, locations, and the substances from which the stones are formed. 

1. Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) - The shock waves would travel through the skin and body tissues so that it would hit the dense stones. The stones would be broken into tiny particles and can be easily passed through the urinary system. This would be helpful only for small stones within the kidney. 

2. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) - With the help of small incisions on the back, a tunnel would be created directly into the kidney. Using nephroscope, the doctor will locate and remove the stones. For large stones, the doctor might use tools that could break these into small particles. 

3. Ureteroscopic stone removal - Using ureteroscope, the doctor will locate and remove the stone in the middle and lower ureters. The stent would be placed in the urinary system for the stone particles to pass and will be removed when the system is free of stone. 

4. Flexible ureteroscopy & laser lithotripsy - This treatment is considered suitable for stones within the interior of the kidney known as calyces and stone close to the kidney. The doctor would pass an extended thin scope through the urethral opening up to the kidney. The interior of the kidney will be examined, and the doctor would treat the stones by using laser energy delivered by a fiber. There is no incision made as an endoscope is used to perform the procedure.

It is always better to drink enough fluids daily and maintain a proper diet to avoid unnecessary health issues and other complications.

Blog Reviewed By: Dr N Anandan
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What happens if Peyronie's disease is left untreated?

Peyronie’s Disease: 

This is when fibrous non-cancerous tissue forms on the male penis and causes curved and painful erections.It usually affects men between the age of 45 and 60. If left untreated, it leads to functional and structural abnormalities of the penis. 

Though it was first described in 1704, it was named after Francois de la Peyronie, who in 1743, described  a patient with this disease’s conditions.

It can cause stress, anxiety and lead to erectile dysfunction.

Very few cases resolve without  any treatment, it often remains or worsens over time, if left untreated. A physical examination  by the doctor is often enough to identify the presence of scar tissue and diagnose the disease.

The following are the risk factors:

1.As it is believed that the disease may be genetic in nature, the risk of passing it onto the next generation is there.

2.Severe pain in the penis.

3.Reduction in the length of the penis and the psychological effect it has on the patient.

4.Difficulty in achieving and maintaining an erection, leading to inability to engage in sexual intercourse and the subsequent breakdown in the relationship with the sexual partner.

5.The most obvious being the inability to father a child, as intercourse is very difficult or next to impossible.

6.A significant bend or structural abnormalities of the penis.

This disease affects each patient differently. It can lead to extreme frustration; affect the patient’s self confidence; lead to depression and problems in interpersonal relationships.

Peyronie’s disease has no total cure, but a wide variety of oral or subdermal medicines may be tried. Extreme cases may need surgery. 

Currently available medications are ineffective.

Surgical correction of penile curvature is needed if the curvature is severe and causes difficuly with relationship. Surgery is also needed if the erectile dysfunction is ineffective with medical treatment.

Blog Reviewed By: Dr N Anandan
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Reduced Urine Flow – What Causes It?

People often will have a weak urine stream despite having a full bladder. This condition might be caused due to urinary obstruction that does not allow the urine to pass through its natural course. This condition is more common in older people in comparison with the younger population. This condition accounts for approximately 2% of new cases diagnosed in men. After kidney and urological disorders, it is the fourth most common problem in men and the sixth most in women.

Causes

 

The causes of reduced or weak urine flow might include and not limited to

Enlarged Prostate: It is mostly known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) which is more common in men as they get older. More than 10 million cases are registered in India every year. It is a condition wherein the urethra that carries the urine gets blocked by the enlarged prostate gland. The gland puts pressure on the urethra, not allowing it to empty the bladder completely.

Urethral Stricture: This a condition characterized by the development of scarring around the urethra that narrows or blocks the passage of the urine flow. The factors that might cause this condition include inflammation, injury to the penis, or infection. If not treated early, the scar tissues further narrows the urethra passage making it more difficult for the urine to pass through.

Urinary Tract Infection: It is the infection that mostly occurs in the lower urinary tract caused by the microorganism like bacteria.this condition is more common in women than in men. This condition can be easily treated with antibiotics if diagnosed during the early stages.

Kidney Failure: It is a condition in which the kidneys have stopped working and are unable to perform their activities. Exposure to toxins, dehydration, chronic diseases, kidney trauma are certain factors that contribute to kidney failure. If the condition is not treated immediately along with reducing urine flow, the body will get overloaded with toxins.

The condition requires an early diagnosis to identify and pinpoint the exact reason for the problem before it manifests into a life-threatening situation. The treatment for reduced urine flow will vary according to the underlying causes of the problem.

If you have noticed any changes in your urine flow, do not neglect the condition and immediately contact Dr.N. Anandan ar  ANANDAN'S UROLOGY CLINIC.

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Blog Reviewed By: Dr N Anandan
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Difference Between Underactive And Overactive Bladder

Millions of people across the world face abnormal urinary conditions due to the lack of bladder control. Overactive bladder and underactive bladder are urinary symptoms that are related to abnormalities while peeing. The urinary symptoms are sometimes serious as it affects our personal and social life. These conditions can disrupt our sleep and sex life. Overactive bladder is commonly discussed but very less is known about the underactive bladder. Let us know more about both the conditions.

Overactive bladder vs Underactive bladder

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition that frequently creates an urge to urinate. Some people are unable to control the sudden urge for urination and suffer from urine leakage. People with these symptoms have the feeling of “gotta go” to the bathroom urgently.

Underactive bladder (UAB) is a condition in which a person is not able to empty the bladder completely. One may hesitate before urine flows or may need to put an effort to push urine out of the bladder. It may have serious consequences if left untreated.

Causes for overactive bladder and underactive bladder

Bladders get overactive due to the involuntary contraction of bladder muscles. Involuntary muscle contraction creates the urgent need to urinate even if the urine is low in the bladder. Other than that, several factors contribute to the cause of overactive bladder are:

• Neurological disorders such as stroke and sclerosis
• Diabetes
• Acute urinary tract infections
• Abnormalities in bladders such as stone formation or tumors
• Enlarged prostate
• Constipation
• Incomplete bladder emptying 

The cause of underactive bladder is not clear as it has multiple possibilities. It can occur due to any obstruction or can be a result of a sense of incomplete emptying of the bladder. There are several factors that are associated with underactive bladder syndrome.

• Damage to the peripheral nerve may eliminate the feeling of bladder filling and cause difficulty in emptying the bladder.
• Pelvic surgery
• Older age
• Vaginal prolapse
• Enlargement of prostate
• Certain spinal cord injury

Symptoms that should not be ignored

With an overactive bladder (OAB), a person may feel like

• Sudden urge to urinate which is uncontrollable
• Frequent urination i.e., more than 8 times in 24 hours
•  Wake up at night to pass urination 

The key symptom of a person having an Underactive Bladder (UAB) is strain while urinating and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.

Treatment for overactive and underactive bladder

One can manage overactive bladder (OAB) with treatments such as medications, bladder injections, nerve stimulation treatment, and surgery.

There is no complete cure for Underactive bladder (UAB), but there are some treatment options which slow down the disease. Medications and intermittent self-catheterization are the main treatments used to improve the condition and to limit the damage to the bladder and kidneys.

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Blog Reviewed By: Dr N Anandan

Mail Us: drnanandan@gmail.com 

Book an appointment: urologistindia.com/book-appointment