Common myths about urology
Myths about science and medicine, especially when they are concerned with the human physical health, are rampant. Sometimes it is the anecdotes that get passed around and thus perpetuate myths, and other times, it is the internet that is to be blamed.
And much like other fields of medicine, there are plenty of myths about urology that are also rampant.
First, what is urology?
Urology is a specialist field of medicine that deals with the issues of the urinary tract and the renal system. Urologists help in the diagnosis, and treatment of issues that affect the kidneys, bladder, urethra, ureters, and the adrenal glands. In men, a urologist in Islamabad also deals with the issues pertaining to penis, the prostate gland, testicles, and the reproductive health.
Since the impact of these myths is rather grave on the human health, therefore, debunking common myths about urology is important.
Common myths about urology
All older people will have bladder issues
Aging is ruthless process. Your body runs into all sorts of issues, that aging cells are less capable of running smoothly. And since aging is incorrigible, there is not much you can do about the issues that posits.
However, just because you are older does not mean you will necessarily run into bladder problems. Any issues with incontinence, UTIs, etc. is mostly symptomatic of other problems. Moreover, regardless of your age, getting proper treatment for these issues is vital.
Only women have UTIS
Another myth is that only women have urinary tract infections. Women are likely to have UTIs because of their anatomy; their ureter is smaller, so bacteria can access the body more easily, and their urethra is in close proximity to the anus, which also makes it more vulnerable to bacterial attack.
However, men can also have UTIs. The myth they cannot then gets in the way of them and medical care, which is very concerning.
Only women have urinary incontinence
Another myth that is common is that only women have urinary continence, a condition in which one loses bladder control. They are then either unable to hold their urine in completely, or they experience dribbling till they make it to the loo.
While women have a greater risk of urinary incontinence because of pregnancy and its impact on the pelvic floor, menopause, and similar issues, it certainly does not mean men cannot have this problem. It is especially common in older people, as the cells degenerate.
Prostate cancer only affects older men
Prostate cancer is a condition in which there is abnormal cellular growth in the prostate gland. If not treated in time, cancer can also metastasize and spread to other parts of the body. It can then lead to the condition becoming terminal.
However, screening for prostate cancer has been shown to be successful in timely treatment of the condition and thus lowering mortality rate. Unfortunately, the myth that only older men can get the cancer gets in the way of people and timely diagnosis.
While it disproportionately affects older men, it can also occur in younger and middle-aged men. Therefore, getting regular screenings is vital. You should consult your doctor about when to start the screening process for the condition.
Only older people need to visit a urologist
Agism is rampant when it comes to the myths associated with urology, but unfortunately, these myths are not grounded in scientific knowledge.
Whereas the risk for diseases of the renal system increases with age, it does not mean that younger people will not face issues. Moreover, it also does not mean that all older people will run into urology-related issues.
There should be no stigma around visiting a doctor, no matter what your age or gender.
Urologists only cater to male-health
Often, it is misunderstood that urologists deal with male patients only. Perhaps the myth lies in the fact that urologists cater to the male reproductive health, which is closely tied to their urinary system.
However, urologists are not exclusively trained in dealing with male-issues. While they might see more male patients, a urologist in Lahore is just as qualified for dealing with renal issues in females as well.
