When to See a Urologist:
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Overlook

1. Frequent or painful urination

If you experience frequent urges to urinate, pain during urination, or difficulty emptying your bladder, these could be signs of an underlying urology problem such as:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in women, but men can also develop UTIs, especially if they have an enlarged prostate or kidney stones.
• Bladder inflammation (cystitis) – Can cause burning sensations and persistent discomfort.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – An enlarged prostate that can obstruct urine flow.
• Kidney stones – May irritate the urinary tract and cause pain.

When to see a urologist?

• If frequent urination disrupts daily activities or sleep.
• If you feel a burning sensation or pain while urinating.
• If there is difficulty starting or stopping urination.
• If you notice blood in your urine.

2. Erectile dysfunction (ED) and sexual health concerns

Erectile dysfunction is a sexual health issue and can be a sign of more serious health concerns, including:

• Cardiovascular disease – ED can be an early indicator of heart problems due to reduced blood flow.
• Diabetes – Increased blood sugar damages nerves and blood vessels, affecting erectile function.
• Hormonal imbalances – Low levels of testosterone can impact libido and performance.
• Prostate disorders – Prostatitis or prostate enlargement can contribute to sexual dysfunction.

When to seek help from a male urologist?

• If ED becomes persistent or worsens over time.
• If you experience reduced libido, fatigue, or mood changes.
• If medications for ED do not seem effective.

A prostate doctor can conduct hormone tests, vascular assessments, and other evaluations to determine the root cause and provide treatment options.

3. Blood in the urine (Hematuria)

Even if it appears only once, blood in the urine should never be ignored. This symptom can indicate:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Kidney stones
• Bladder or kidney cancer
• Prostate issues

When to see a urologist?

• If you notice pink, red, or dark brown urine.
• If you experience pain or discomfort while urinating.
• If hematuria persists for more than one occurrence.

To establish the cause, a urologist for men will perform urine tests, imaging scans, and cystoscopy (an examination of the bladder).

4. Prostate health and screening

The prostate gland is vital to male reproductive health. As men age, prostate-related conditions become more common, including:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – Non-cancerous prostate enlargement leading to urinary difficulties.
• Prostatitis – Prostate inflammation can lead to pelvic discomfort and pain.
• Prostate cancer – One of the most common cancers in men.

Signs you need to visit a prostate doctor

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination.
• Frequent nighttime urination.
• Weak or interrupted urine flow.
• Pelvic pain or discomfort.

Regular tests with a prostate doctor are critical for early detection, particularly in men over the age of 50.

5. Pain in the lower abdomen, groin, or testicles

Unexplained pain in these areas could indicate:

• Kidney stones – These can cause sharp, severe pain that radiates from the back to the groin.
• Hernias – These may lead to discomfort, particularly when lifting heavy objects.
• Testicular conditions – Cysts, infections, or testicular cancer can cause pain or swelling.

A male urologist can perform ultrasound scans and other diagnostic methods to identify the real cause and recommend treatment options.

6. Infertility and male reproductive health

If you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success, a urologist for men can help identify potential causes such as:

• Low sperm count or poor sperm motility
• Hormonal imbalances
• Blockages in the reproductive tract
• Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)

7. Kidney stones: Symptoms and when to seek help

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that grow in the kidneys and can block urine flow, causing intense pain.

Symptoms of kidney stones:

• Severe pain in the lower back, side, or groin.
• Blood in urine.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Frequent and painful urination.

If kidney stones are large or create persistent problems, a urologist for men may recommend shock wave therapy or surgical removal.

8. Urinary incontinence or difficulty controlling bladder function

Lack of bladder control can have a negative impact on one’s quality of life. Common causes include:

• Weak bladder muscles are caused by ageing or post-surgical problems.
• Nerve damage can result from spinal traumas, diabetes or neurological diseases.
• An enlarged prostate can hinder the passage of urine, resulting in retention or leaks. 

Treatment options from a male urologist

• Medications to strengthen bladder control.
• Pelvic floor exercises to improve muscle function.
• Minimally invasive surgical options if needed.

9. Lumps or swelling in the testicles

If you notice a lump, swelling, or unusual changes in the testicles, it could indicate:

• Testicular infections or inflammation
• Hydrocele (fluid buildup)
• Testicular cancer

10. Unexplained fatigue, weight loss, or chronic pain

While general symptoms like fatigue or weight loss may not immediately point to urology problems, they can sometimes indicate:

• Kidney disease – This may lead to fluid retention and chronic fatigue.
• Prostate cancer – In some cases, symptoms appear in later stages