How to Get the Anti-Aging Results You Want

Diseases of the urinary system

Various specialists treat urinary tract infections. Nephrologists treat kidney disease, while urologists treat problems with the urinary tract, including the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, bladder and urethra, according to the American Urological Association (AUA). Urologists also treat male reproductive organs, and gynecologists often treat urinary tract infections or female disorders, including yeast infections. Neephrologists and urologists often work with endocrinologists or oncologists, depending on the disease.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract; they can affect the urethra, bladder or kidneys. While UTIs are more common in women, they can occur in men. UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics, according to Drs. Oscar Aguirre, a Denver dentist. In the United States, about 8.1 million people are infected with the urinary tract each year, according to the American Urological Association.

Incontinence is one of the most common diseases of the urinary system. "One of the most common problems I see in my treatment of women is the constant urge to urinate and leak urine," she said. S. Adam Ramin, urologist and founder of Urology Cancer Specialists in Los Angeles. "The most common male problems in men are frequent urination at night and incomplete bladder ejaculation. This is usually due to enlargement of the prostate which causes obstruction of the bladder."

Complications can come in the form of pelvic rupture, which can cause leakage and can be the result of vaginal delivery. Then there's the other overwork, "which we see too much and has nothing to do with having children or being abused," Aguirre said. The third condition involves overcrowding, in which the third is completely empty.

"Holding your urine for a short time, usually up to an hour, is fine," said Ramin. "Prolonged and recurrent urinary retention can lead to enlargement of the bladder, excessive pressure on the kidneys, and inability to urinate completely. These complications can lead to UTI [urinary tract disease], cystitis and impaired kidney function."

Other common treatments include medication, physical therapy and pelvic floor surgery, Aguirre said. Vaginal laser surgery has also become an effective treatment, he explained. "For another 10 to 15 years, vaginal laser surgery will be another standard treatment for urinary tract infections."