There are many reasons why men will be referred to a specialist, and if you experience any of the following symptoms you should see a family doctor. Here are 10 signs that encourage you to consult.
You should also know that unless you go to a private clinic, you cannot consult a specialist directly, such as a urologist, without a referral from one or your family doctor.
Remember: the earlier you spot a potential health issue, the better the chance of treating it before it turns into a bigger problem.
Testicular pain or mass: When testicular pain is persistent and does not go away within two weeks, it is time to see a doctor. Any lump, firmness or lump on the testicles should be examined right away, due to the risk of testicular cancer. Fortunately, when detected early, this cancer is one of the cancers associated with the highest cure rate.
Erectile dysfunction: This is an uncomfortable conversation to have, but it’s important to share it with your doctor. Erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to get or keep an erect penis, affects sexual performance and intimacy, but can also reveal complications such as vascular disease, kidney failure, or problems with your prostate. Although many men find it embarrassing to talk about this problem, it is important to assess and treat the underlying conditions as soon as possible.
Infertility: Several infertility problems can be directly linked to a male health problem. If your partner is being evaluated, you should get a concurrent evaluation from a urologist.
Blood in your urine: This is a sign that should get you checked out, as it could be a warning sign of a more serious problem that may be related to your bladder, prostate or kidneys. Even if blood in your urine is intermittent, it signals a condition that requires medical attention. The examination may include urine tests, imaging, and cystoscopy (an examination to see inside your bladder), among others.
Difficulty urinating: Although not life-threatening, this is usually caused by an enlarged prostate, a common symptom of aging. Fortunately, this condition can be treated with medication to relieve your symptoms or even reduce the size of your prostate to help when you urinate.
Pain when urinating: It could be a urinary tract infection (UTI), most commonly caused by bacteria. Your doctor can determine the cause of your pain or burning sensation and recommend a specific treatment.
Urge to urinate: It’s time to see your doctor if incontinence (urinary leakage) starts suddenly or is interfering with your lifestyle. Urinary incontinence is quite common and can usually be managed or treated successfully.
Fatigue, nausea, abnormal urine: It could be kidney failure. If your doctor detects anything unusual during an ultrasound, you will be referred to a kidney specialist.
Higher than normal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels: The PSA test is often used as a screening tool for prostate cancer from the age of 50. Typically, a very low level of PSA is found in your bloodstream. When there is a sudden change or your PSA level keeps rising, you will be referred to a urologist who can determine the cause.
Abnormal prostate exam: If firmness, small nodules, or irregularities are detected during a digital rectal exam (DRE), you will be referred to a urologist to determine any potentially serious issues.
Take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease, our expert lectures and webinars, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you, our events and ways to get involved in advancing the cause.
You have questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate. You can chat with us or contact us at 1-855-899-2873 to discuss with one of our nurses specialized in uro-oncology. They are there to listen, support and answer your questions, as well as those of your family or loved ones. It’s simple and free, like all of our other services.
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