Members of both sexes can suffer from urological problems. The penis, urethra, prostate gland, urinary tract, bladder and kidneys are the organs affected by urology problems. Aging, sickness or injury considerably affects the functioning of these organs. Interstitial cystitis, urinary stones, urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence and enlarged prostate are the most common urological problems, the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) states.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
The prostate gland, an element of the male reproductive system, is located around the bladder's bottom, surrounding the urethra. In benign prostatic hyperplasia, an age-related disorder, the prostate gland becomes enlarged, which interferes with the urinary system by squeezing the urethral canal and obstructing the free flow of urine. Common symptoms include frequent urination (as the bladder is never completely empty), painful urination and incontinence.
Painful Bladder Syndrome
Painful bladder syndrome affects both men and women. According to the NKUDIC, a specific cause for this condition is yet to be determined; however, the symptoms are similar to those of a bacterial infection. This condition is commonly characterized by pain in the pelvis or bladder area. Frequent urination and urgency to urinate are other common symptoms. Women may experience heightened pain during their periods or during vaginal intercourse.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are accumulations of crystalline elements (calcium) in the kidneys, urinary tract or bladder. The inability of the kidney to break down crystalline elements in urine leads to the formation of kidney stones. The type of foods a person consumes and hereditary aliments may contribute to this condition; however, according to NKUDIC, the exact cause is still debated. Common symptoms of kidney stones include intense pain and a burning sensation while urinating, blood or pus in the urine, nausea or vomiting, reduced urine output and back pain. Kidney stones can easily be treated with medication and laparoscopic surgeries.
Urinary Tract Infection
A type of bacterial infection, urinary tract infection (UTI) affects the urethra, bladder, kidney or ureters, all constituents of the urinary system. According to NKUDIC, every fifth women develops a UTI at least once in her lifetime, the reasons for which are yet to be understood. Symptoms of UTI are a burning sensation while urinating, increased frequency or urination and painful urination. Experiencing constant pain in the pelvic region or above the pubic bone is also a symptom of UTI. Men may feel fullness in the rectum. Severe symptoms of UTI include milky or bloody urine accompanied by fever, which indicates that the infection has reached kidneys.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Chronic Kidney Disease and Kidney Failure
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Kidney and Urologic Disease Statistics
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Your Urinary System
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Urinary Tract Infections in Adults
