There is a common misconception that only women and older men need to see urologists. It is true that conditions such as UTIs and urinary incontinence are more common in women than in men. It’s also true that prostate issues typically don’t arise until men have reached the age of 50.
However, younger men can still experience a number of conditions that are best treated by a urologist.
Testicular/Scrotal Pain
Men at any age may experience pain in their testicles and the surrounding area. This can be caused by a number of conditions including hernias, STIs, testicular torsion, kidney stones, and more. It’s important to determine and treat the problem immediately, as some of these conditions can cause permanent damage if ignored.
Because urologists specialize in the urinary tract and male reproductive organs, they can accurately diagnose your condition and treat it accordingly.
Urinary Tract Infections
UTIs occur when bacteria enters the urinary system and beings multiplying. Though women are 30 times more likely to develop a UTI then men, it is still possible for men to get a UTI. Symptoms of UTIs include a frequent urge to urinate, painful urination, difficulty starting urination, blood in urine, and more. In more severe situations, you may also experience a fever, nausea, and chills.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor. If it’s a UTI, they’ll likely prescribe an antibiotic that can get you back to normal.
Prostate Problems
Almost all men will experience prostate issues if they live long enough. This is because the prostate gland continues to grow throughout your entire life. Once you’re in your 60s, there’s a 70% chance you’ll experience symptoms relating to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This includes the need to frequently urinate, troubles with starting urination, an inability to drain your bladder, and more.
BPH is very rare among younger men, as is prostate cancer. However, prostatitis is a similar condition that is more common in men under 50. Prostatitis is when your prostate becomes swollen, inflamed, or tender. Approximately 50% of men will experience some form of prostatitis in their lifetime.
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediate, regardless of your age. Many prostate conditions share symptoms with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is highly treatable as long as it’s detected in time.
Regardless of symptoms, all men should start having their prostate checked by the age of 50. Men with a history of prostate cancer should start at 40, while African American men should start around 45 regardless of history.
You should never think you are too young to see a medical professional. Even if you’re less likely to develop a certain condition, it is still a possibility. If you’re experiencing symptoms relating to any of the conditions listed above, see a urologist, and get the treatment you need. For urology in Dayton and the surrounding Ohio communities, contact Urology Specialists of Ohio today!