UROLOGY-NEPHROLOGY
Urology is a medical-surgical specialty that deals with disorders of the urinary system in both women and men (bladder, ureter, urethra). It also covers the male genital and reproductive system (prostate, penis, testicles).
Urologists are consulted in cases of :
- Recurrent urinary tract infections.
- Urinary incontinence,
- Blood in the urine,
- Testicular pain,
- Prostate dysfunction or erectile dysfunction: intimate conditions that patients can discuss with this specialist without taboo.
Urologists also offer prostate cancer screening from the age of 50. There are also specialized pediatric urologists, for example, for malformations or bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis).
Nephrology is a medical specialty that focuses on the functioning of the kidneys as well as the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney diseases.
Located at the bottom of the spine, the two kidneys are the body's purification centers, filtering the blood by eliminating waste and removing excess water and minerals (sodium, potassium, etc.) through urine.
The kidneys also produce hormones that are essential to the body. Therefore, their role is vital. When they no longer function efficiently, called renal insufficiency, it may be necessary to have the kidneys' purification work done by a machine - dialysis - or consider a kidney transplantation (transplant).The kidneys also produce hormones that are essential to the body. Therefore, their role is vital. When they no longer function efficiently, called renal insufficiency, it may be necessary to have the kidneys' purification work done by a machine - dialysis - or consider a kidney transplantation (transplant).
It is necessary to consult a nephrologist for all kidney-related conditions :
- Kidney stones,
- Persistent kidney pain,
- Presence of blood (hematuria) or protein (proteinuria) in the urine,
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Collaborating with other specialists as needed (intensivists, cardiologists, diabetologists, etc.), the nephrologist takes charge of these diseases.
By relying on examinations to refine their diagnosis, they can prescribe medications, recommend an adapted diet, and follow up with dialyzed or transplanted patients.
