Questions and Answers

Historically, there has been a suggestion that circumcision may prevent transmission of some diseases such as sexually transmitted diseases including viruses. There has also been the thought that some types of cancer may be reduced among those who have undergone circumcision. For the most part, this evidence is very weak, and most doctors and surgeons […] Read More

This sounds rather uncomfortable and certainly like something that should be evaluated by your primary care doctor as soon as possible. There are many causes of testicular pain and differentiating between them requires a thorough history, physical exam, and potentially imaging studies (namely an ultrasound of the scrotum) so seeing a doctor for an office […] Read More

Prostatitis is caused by inflammation or infection in the prostate gland. There are actually two different types of prostatitis. The most common type of prostatitis is infectious prostatitis, caused by a bacterial infection in the prostate gland. Infectious prostatitis is treated with antibiotics; because infections clear very slowly out of the prostate gland, it is […] Read More

An enlarged prostate is a very common development as men age. In some cases, a large prostate can be associated with prostate cancer (why primary care physicians discuss cancer screening with older patients), but a condition called benign prostate hypertrophy is by far the most common reason for prostatic enlargement. As the name implies, BPH […] Read More

This is a very insightful question, as early cancer detection offers the best chance of cure. Screening exams and careful family history are the best way you and your doctor can go over your health risks and help determine when you should start being screened for particular types of malignancy. In general, it is recommended […] Read More

Circumcision is not a medically necessary procedure in almost any circumstances. Reasons that parents choose to have their children circumcised tend to be cultural or religious. Infant boys who are not circumcised have a higher risk of urine infections in the first 6 months of life, but then that risk goes away. There are no […] Read More

Kidney stones are extremely common. Many times, they are caused simply by drinking little fluids. This is probably the reason that your urologist told you to cut back on coffee, as coffee, soda, and similar beverages are all diuretics that can actually contribute to dehydration. For people who have had an episode of kidney stones, […] Read More

Epididymitis is usually caused by the spread of a bacterial infection from the urethra or the bladder. An acute onset (less than 6 weeks) is typically triggered by infectious etiologies. Bacteria are responsible for about 80% of cases. The most common infections that cause this condition are chlamydia and gonorrhea in young heterosexual men. In […] Read More

Nocturia, the act of urinating more frequently at night, is an unfortunate problem that disrupts sleep and can be a sign of other medical conditions. One common cause of frequent nighttime urination is benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH. Most males will experience some degree of enlargement of their prostate gland. Because the prostate gland is […] Read More

Kidney cancer is a difficult situation. This medical condition, most commonly Renal Cell Carcinoma, requires significant treatment and medical attention. If required, he or she may refer you to an oncologist (a cancer specialist) or a urologist (a kidney surgeon). Renal cell carcinoma is almost exclusively (in early stages) treated with surgery. Often the diagnosis […] Read More