The article in brief
Urological pain can be a sign of serious problems that require prompt attention. Here are the key points to remember:
- Immediate emergencies renal colic, febrile urinary tract infection and acute urinary retention
- Quick consultation sudden testicular pain, significant haematuria and persistent erectile dysfunction
- Medical follow-up persistent pain when urinating, increased need to urinate and testicular discomfort
- Importance of earliness preventing complications and improving quality of life
Urological pain can be a sign of more or less serious problems. As an experienced urologist, I often find that my patients are reluctant to seek help, not always knowing when their symptoms require medical advice. However, there are certain situations that require prompt attention. Here are the signs to look out for and the cases where a urological consultation is required.
Urological emergencies: when to consult without delay
Some cases of urological pain require immediate consultation. In the course of my career, I have seen many cases where prompt treatment has helped to avoid serious complications. Here are the situations that require urgent consultation:
The attack of renal colic
La renal colic is a sudden, intense pain in the lower back. It is often described as one of the most intense pains you can feel. If you are experiencing this type of pain, don't wait: go to A&E or see a urologist immediately.
Febrile urinary tract infection
A urinary infection accompanied by a fever can quickly become dangerous. Symptoms include burning on urination, frequent urination and a high temperature. Prompt treatment is essential to avoid a recurrence. sepsis.
Acute retention of urine
Sudden inability to urinate, despite a full bladder, is a medical emergency. This situation can be extremely painful and requires rapid intervention to relieve the bladder and identify the cause of the problem.
The following table summarises the most common urological emergencies:
| Urological emergencies | Main symptoms | Action to be taken |
|---|---|---|
| Renal colic | Severe, sudden back pain | Consult immediately |
| Febrile urinary tract infection | Urinary burning, fever | Quick consultation |
| Acute retention of urine | Inability to urinate, pain | Going to emergency |
Signs requiring rapid consultation
Other symptoms, although less urgent, merit special attention and prompt consultation with the urologist. As a specialist, I strongly recommend that you do not overlook these signs, which may be indicative of significant underlying problems.
Sudden testicular pain
A sudden, intense pain in the testiclesSymptoms of testicular torsion, especially in men under the age of 30, may indicate testicular torsion. This condition requires surgery within 6 hours of the onset of symptoms to avoid irreversible damage. Never underestimate this type of pain.
Significant haematuria
The presence of blood in the urine, especially if it is abundant or persistent, should alert you. Haematuria can be a sign of a variety of conditions, from urinary tract infection to bladder cancer. A prompt consultation will help identify the cause and enable appropriate treatment to be put in place.
Persistent erectile dysfunction
Erectile problems may be a sign of vascular or neurological disorders. If they persist, it is important to consult a urologist. Apart from the impact on sexual life, these problems may be indicative of more general health problems, such as cardiovascular disease.
I remember a patient who had hesitated for a long time to consult us about erectile dysfunction. When he finally decided, we discovered that he had undiagnosed hypertension that needed urgent treatment.
Symptoms requiring medical attention
Some symptoms, although less alarming, merit medical attention if they persist. As a urologist, I always advise my patients to be alert to these signs which, if they persist, may indicate an underlying problem requiring treatment.
- Persistent pain when urinating
- Sudden increase in the need to urinate
- Testicular discomfort or pain that doesn't go away
- Sensation of a nodule or plaque in the penis
- Abnormal curvature of the erect penis
If you experience any of these symptoms for more than a few days, we recommend that you consult a urologist for a thorough assessment. For example, an abnormal curvature of the penis could be a sign of Lapeyronie's disease, a condition that requires specific treatment.
Importance of early consultation
In the course of my practice, I have found that many patients wait too long before seeking medical advice, sometimes out of embarrassment or fear. Yet early consultation can make all the difference in the management and treatment of many urological conditions.
Preventing complications
Early consultation can often prevent serious complications. For example, an untreated urinary tract infection can develop into pyelonephritis, a potentially dangerous kidney infection. Similarly, early diagnosis of prostate cancer can significantly improve the chances of recovery.
Improved quality of life
Many urological problems have a direct impact on quality of life. Whether it's problems with urination or sexual dysfunction, these problems can have a major impact on daily well-being. Appropriate treatment can often improve the situation considerably.
Finally, I can't stress enough the importance of seeking prompt medical advice in the event of persistent urological pain or symptoms. Don't hesitate to consult your GP or a urologist if you have the slightest doubt. Your health depends on it, and early attention is often the key to effective treatment.
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