Male Bladder Conditions

Bladder problems are common in men as they age, but far too many ignore their symptoms and do not seek proper medical care. This can result in a dysfunctional bladder, a need for a bladder catheter all the time, an increased risk for bladder infections, and even kidney failure problems. Urological issues can be better cared for at early onset. The key is to pay attention to any changes in urination and call the Urologists at Academic Urology & Urogynecology of Arizona if you are concerned. A slow urine stream, frequent urination, and the feeling of not being able to empty your bladder are all good reasons to consult with our Urologists for advice. Regardless of your bladder problem, our end goal is to preserve your bladder function and quality of life through a variety of advanced treatment options. Listed below are a few of the male urological problems effectively treated at Academic Urology & Urogynecology of Arizona:

• Incontinence: The unintentional release of urine. The three common types of urinary incontinence in men include: stress incontinence (when you sneeze, cough, laugh, jog, or do other things that put pressure on your bladder); urge incontinence (when you have a strong need to urinate but can’t reach the toilet in time); and overflow incontinence (when you have an inability to completely empty your bladder).
• Overactive Bladder: The frequent and sudden urge to urinate.
• Voiding Dysfunction: An abnormality of the filling and emptying of the bladder. The three common types of voiding dysfunction include: urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and painful urination.
• Urinary Tract Infection: An infection that occurs when bacteria enters the opening of the urethra and multiplies in the urinary tract.
• Bladder Infection: An infection that occurs when bacteria moves to the bladder and multiplies.
• Interstitial Cystitis (IC): An abnormality of the filling and emptying of the bladder. The three common types of voiding dysfunction include: urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and painful urination.
• Voiding Dysfunction: A chronic inflammation of the bladder wall.
• Bladder Cancer: Any of several types of malignant growths of the urinary bladder.

Urinalysis, urine culture, and imaging studies are often used in the diagnosis of many of these bladder conditions. During your initial consultations, you will be asked about your symptoms and medical history and we will conduct a thorough physical examination. Depending on your urology issues, our Urologists may recommend a series of tests, such as a stress test, blood tests, and urodynamic testing. Some patients may be asked to keep a bladder diary to track how often and when they pass urine, and how much urgency they feel each time. If you have a bladder control or a urological condition like bladder cancer, the Urologists will help determine the treatment that’s best for you.