What causes kidney stones?
There are many factors that contribute to kidney stone formation. First, there is a heritery factor and it may skip a generation. Diet, fluid intake, enviroment, and physical activity also contribute to kidney stone formation.
How can kidney stones be treated?
90% of all kidney stones will pass on their own. This is the first option for treatment. Medications are prescribed to aid in stone passage and to help relieve pain.
What if kidney stones will not pass on their own?
Typically stones are then either removed with a scope or broken up with a shock wave machine. In rare cases a more invasive procedure may be required.
What causes ED?
ED is a common problem that increase with aging. There are many conditions that can lead to ED; high blood pressure and diabetes are the two most common contributors.
What are the treatment options for ED?
There are 4 to 5 oral medications to treat ED. These are typically tried first. Medications work differently for each individual, so what works for one man may not work for another.
What can be done if oral medications do not work?
The next options would include a Vacuum Erection Device or self-injection therapy. The last option would be the insertion of a Penile Prothesis.
What are the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer?
There are no signs and/or symptoms of early prostate cancer. It is only when the prostate cancer has moved to other parts of the body that signs or symptoms appear. That is why yearly screening with a digital rectal exam and a PSA blood test are so important. These tests help to detect prostate cancer in it’s early stages when it is curable.
What is OAB?
OAB is a medical condition that can happen when the muscles in your bladder are too active. Your bladder muscles contract to pass urine before they should. These contractions cause the sudden, strong urge to urinate.
What are the symptoms of OAB?
Leakage: Leaking is also known as “accidentally urinating” after a sudden, uncontrollable urge. Urgency: Urgency is when you feel a strong need to urinate that is difficult to control. The stronger the urge, the greater chance you may have of leaking. Frequency: Frequency means that you need to urinate too often. If you urinate 8 or more times in a 24-hour period, that could be a sign that you may have urinary frequency.
Is OAB common?
Yes. Millions of people in the United States live with OAB symptoms. Approximately 1 in 3 adults 40 years of age and older reported symptoms of OAB at least “sometimes.”
Who does OAB affect?
OAB affects both men and women. OAB symptoms of urgency, frequency, and leakage are not normal at any age. They may occur more often as people get older, but that doesn’t mean they are a normal part of aging. The chances of experiencing OAB increase when a woman goes through menopause. The same is true for men who have had prostate problems. Other conditions can increase the risk of OAB, such as diseases that affect the brain or nervous system.
How do I find out if I have OAB?
Only a healthcare professional can diagnose OAB. If you think you have OAB, speak to your doctor. He or she will start by asking you a few questions about your symptoms and medical history. When you provide answers, try to be as detailed as possible. Discuss how long you’ve experienced your symptoms, their intensity, and how frequently they occur. Your doctor may suggest you track your symptoms in a bladder diary. Your doctor may also perform a physical examination. The urinary system is complex, so your doctor may need to examine your abdomen, pelvis, rectum, or prostate. You may also be asked to provide a urine or blood sample to rule out other conditions.
How is OAB treated?
Your healthcare provider will help determine the treatment plan for you. The first step in treating OAB is typically to make changes in your lifestyle. This could mean changes in what you eat or drink. You may try removing one or more things from your diet to determine if they are making your symptoms worse. Other lifestyle changes may include scheduled bathroom breaks or pelvic exercises. Both of these are intended to help “train” your bladder. Your healthcare provider may suggest a treatment plan for you that may include taking a prescription medicine for OAB. You should follow the prescription instructions exactly as they are written. It is also important that you ask your healthcare provider about what you can expect from this medicine.