Men’s health: 5 things to know about your urological health
How often do you think about your reproductive system?
Chances are – not very.
Urology is a medical speciality that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases that affect the male and female urinary tract and male reproductive system.
Many men tend to overlook the importance of being mindful of urological health, but it’s necessary as poor health in this area can affect your quality of life, well-being and reproductive abilities when you’re planning a family.
Make it a priority to have regular check-ups with a urologist so you can get immediate treatment for any lurking conditions.
Let’s take a look at potential urological health concerns.
Prostate health
The prostate is a gland located just below the bladder, in front of the rectum. Health issues like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer might try to sneak in, but regular check-ups and screenings act as security guards, catching these troublemakers early. When it comes to screenings, it’s a good idea to start at around age 50, but if you're experiencing worrying symptoms or even just a passing concern, speak to your doctor.
Testicular health
Testicular health is vital, as testicles are responsible for sperm production and secreting male hormones. Pay attention to changes in the size, shape or texture of your testicles, as these can be symptoms of testicular cancer. Be proactive and do at-home checks so you can spot any abnormalities as soon as possible. It’s important to know that testicular health isn’t just about the risk of cancer; it also plays a role in reproductive and hormonal health. Infections, hormonal imbalances or structural abnormalities can all affect testicular function.
Erectile dysfunction
Urological health isn't just about the basics; it extends to your intimate well-being, including health matters like erectile dysfunction (ED). A healthy sex life is important for your relationship, especially if you’re planning a family, and when challenges arise, urologists can step in with tailored treatments to address concerns like ED.
Urinary function
Maintaining proper urinary function is necessary for men's urological health. This includes addressing issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, incontinence and other urinary problems that can impact your daily life.
Make healthier choices
Your lifestyle choices matter more than you know. Keeping fit and eating nutritious foods can go a long way in ensuring you stay healthy. If you tend to binge-drink, cut back for your health.
The same goes for smoking, in fact, quitting is one of the best things you can do not just for your urological health – but for your life. Make it a priority to eat more vegetables, fruits and wholegrains and choose lean cuts of meat over fatty, sodium-packed foods.
Remember: men's urological health also relates to the ability to reproduce. Conditions that affect fertility and the reproductive system are part of this domain and urologists can offer guidance and treatment if you have been struggling with infertility.
Good to know
Keep up with regular check-ups to ensure that your urological health is well taken care of. These visits can help detect and address potential health issues early on.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.