When urinary symptoms need a specialist
Most urinary tract infections are straightforward and settle with a course of antibiotics from a family doctor. A urologist becomes useful when infections keep returning, when symptoms persist despite treatment, when cultures are repeatedly negative, or when something does not fit the usual pattern.
Symptoms we assess
- Burning or pain on passing urine
- Needing to pass urine often, or urgently
- Getting up at night
- Blood in the urine — visible, or found on a test
- Difficulty starting, a weak stream, or incomplete emptying
- Leakage or loss of control
Blood in the urine should always be assessed
Blood in the urine is often caused by something benign — an infection, a stone, or an enlarged prostate. But it can also be the first sign of something that needs finding early, so it should be properly investigated rather than assumed to be an infection.
Recurring infections
When infections keep coming back, the aim is to work out why rather than simply treating each episode. That can mean looking at how well the bladder empties, whether a stone or other structural cause is present, and reviewing previous cultures to make sure the right organism is being treated.
What an assessment involves
A detailed history, examination, urine testing, and imaging or a look inside the bladder where indicated. You will leave with an explanation of what is likely going on and a specific plan — not another blind course of antibiotics.