Initial Consultation with a Urologist for Men - Essential Information to Prepare
In the realm of healthcare, regular urological examinations play a crucial role, particularly for men and women over the age of 45.
For men, prostate cancer, the most common cancer, is a significant concern. A urological examination can help detect this early, potentially leading to more effective treatment. The process is straightforward, often beginning with a discussion of the patient's medical history, including family history of cancer, previous illnesses, or medication use.
A physical examination may follow, which may be supplemented by urine or blood tests. One such test is the PSA screening, where the "prostate-specific antigen" is determined. Robert Frese, a urologist, recommends combining PSA screenings with a digital rectal examination (DRE) for early detection of cancer. He considers completely forgoing DRE as incorrect, as it can provide crucial information about prostate size, shape, and any palpable abnormalities that could indicate colorectal cancer.
The DRE itself is not painful and usually takes only a few seconds. Axel Merseburger, another urologist, advises a relaxed posture and calm breathing during a DRE to help reduce embarrassment. It's worth noting that PSA screenings are not currently paid for by health insurance companies, with costs around 25 to 35 euros.
Men should make an appointment with a urologist for the cancer screening examination, but urologists can also be contact persons for other topics such as fertility, sexual problems, or sexually transmitted diseases.
Women can also benefit from urological care, particularly for conditions such as bladder cancer or kidney tumors. Unlike men, there is no specific recommended age for women to have regular urological examinations. Instead, urological care for women is relevant throughout life, depending on conditions such as pregnancy, menopause, infections, or tumor risks in older age. Women are advised to consult a urologist whenever they have relevant symptoms rather than at a fixed age.
Symptoms that warrant a visit to the urologist include frequent or painful urination, blood in urine, recurring urinary tract infections, kidney stones, erectile dysfunction, testicular pain, unclear abdominal discomfort, and external changes like signs of inflammation in the genital area or hardening in the testicular area.
Approximately 40% of Robert Frese's patients are women, who visit for reasons such as recurring urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or urinary incontinence. Children also receive urological treatment for congenital malformations or cryptorchidism.
Despite the importance of preventive examinations, a representative survey shows that 55 percent of men aged 45 and over do not regularly undergo the annual urological examination for cancer screening, and 26 percent of men aged 45 and over have never done so. This reluctance towards preventive examinations may be attributed to male psychology, as men often see their bodies as tools and doctors as engineers, only to be consulted when there's a problem.
In conclusion, regular urological examinations are essential for both men and women, offering early detection and effective treatment for various urological conditions. It's crucial for everyone to prioritise their health and consult a urologist whenever necessary.
