Cancer is a disease where the body's cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Symptoms vary widely depending on the type and location, but common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. While causes are complex, healthy lifestyle choices like diet and exercise can influence risk and overall health.

Cancer basics

What does Stage mean?

Center for Urologic Care Physician Profile

The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a blood test commonly used to screen for prostate cancer. While higher PSA levels can suggest prostate cancer, they can also be due to other prostate problems. It's vital to discuss with your doctor if screening is right for you, considering your age, health, and family history, to understand potential benefits and risks.

PSA, Prostate Cancer Screening

Blood in the urine, or hematuria, means blood is present, either visible (pink/red/brown) or microscopic. While often caused by treatable conditions like infections or kidney stones, it's crucial to see a doctor to identify the underlying cause and determine the best approach. Staying well-hydrated can sometimes help prevent certain contributing factors.

Blood in the urine

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a very common, non-cancerous condition where the prostate gland grows with age. This growth can press on the urethra, causing urinary symptoms like frequent urges, a weak stream, or waking up at night to urinate. It's often managed through lifestyle adjustments, medications, or, in some cases, minor procedures to help you feel more comfortable.

BPH, Enlarged Prostate

Localized kidney cancer means abnormal cells are found only within the kidney. Often found early, symptoms might include blood in urine or back pain, with causes linked to smoking or obesity. Treatment frequently involves surgery, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle for overall well-being.

Kidney cancer, localized

Kidney cysts are common, fluid-filled sacs that can form in the kidneys. Many are harmless, cause no symptoms, and require no treatment. Others may need monitoring or intervention if they grow large, cause pain, or affect kidney function. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle generally supports kidney health.

Kidney cysts

Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men, affecting the walnut-sized prostate gland. Early stages often have no symptoms, though risk increases with age and family history. Treatment options vary, from active surveillance to surgery or radiation. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be beneficial.

Prostate Cancer

Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells form in your bladder's lining. The most common symptom is blood in urine, sometimes with frequent or painful urination. Smoking is a key cause, along with certain chemical exposures. Treatment options often include surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the cancer stage. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, especially quitting smoking, is important for prevention and management.

Bladder cancer

Advanced kidney cancer means the disease has spread from its original site in the kidney to other parts of the body. Symptoms may include fatigue, pain, or unexpected weight loss. Management focuses on slowing disease progression with treatments like targeted therapy or immunotherapy, and prioritizing your overall well-being.

Kidney cancer, advanced

Stoma care is the essential daily management of a surgically created opening (stoma) on the abdomen, typically for waste elimination. It involves meticulous cleaning, proper pouching, and skin protection to prevent irritation and infection. With education and routine, people with stomas can maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

Stoma Care

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma is cancer that develops in the lining of the kidney or ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder). Key symptoms often include blood in the urine. While smoking and certain chemical exposures are common risk factors, treatment typically involves surgery, and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking are crucial.

Urothelial Carcinoma of the Upper Tract

Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in your kidneys, often causing severe back or side pain and sometimes blood in the urine. They can be linked to dehydration or diet. While painful, many pass with increased fluids, or medical procedures may be needed for larger stones. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for prevention.

Kidney stones

Testicular cancer is a treatable cancer that begins in the testicles, often appearing as a painless lump, swelling, or heaviness in the scrotum. While its exact causes are unclear (an undescended testicle is a known risk factor), it's highly curable, especially when caught early. Treatment typically involves surgery, sometimes with chemotherapy or radiation, making self-awareness and regular self-exams important for timely detection.

Testicular cancer

Penile cancer is a rare cancer affecting the skin or tissues of the penis. Symptoms can include skin changes, lumps, unhealing sores, or unusual discharge. Risk factors include HPV and certain lifestyle factors; maintaining good hygiene can help. Treatment often involves surgery or radiation, and early detection is key for better outcomes.

Penile cancer

An adrenal mass is a growth found on one of your small adrenal glands, located above your kidney. Most are benign (non-cancerous) and found by chance, causing no symptoms. However, some may produce excess hormones or, less commonly, be cancerous. A doctor will evaluate it to determine its nature and guide appropriate care, which might include monitoring or removal.

Adrenal Mass

Nocturia is the medical term for waking up one or more times during the night specifically to urinate. This can be caused by various factors, including fluid intake patterns, medications, and underlying health conditions like bladder issues or diabetes. Managing nocturia often involves lifestyle adjustments, such as timing fluid intake, and addressing any contributing medical conditions with your healthcare provider.

Nocturia

Scrotal conditions involve various issues affecting the scrotum, the protective sac containing the testicles, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, or lumps. These can stem from infections, injuries, or fluid accumulation. While some may resolve with observation or medication, others might require surgery; prompt medical evaluation is always recommended for proper care.

Scrotal conditions

Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin of the penis cannot be fully pulled back over the glans (head of the penis). It's often normal in infants and young boys and usually resolves naturally. If it persists or causes issues like pain, difficulty urinating, or infections, treatment options may include topical creams, gentle stretching exercises, or in some cases, a surgical procedure like circumcision. Maintaining good hygiene is important.

Phimosis

Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition causing a sudden, strong urge to urinate, often leading to frequent bathroom trips day and night, and sometimes accidental leakage. This occurs when the bladder muscles contract involuntarily. Lifestyle adjustments like managing fluid intake and diet, along with bladder training and various medications, can effectively help manage symptoms and improve daily life.

Overactive bladder

Vasectomy is a highly effective, permanent form of male birth control. It's a minor surgical procedure that prevents sperm from reaching the semen, thus preventing pregnancy. This procedure does not affect sex drive, hormone levels, or ejaculation volume, offering couples peace of mind about family planning.

Vasectomy

Vasectomy reversal, known as vasovasostomy or vasoepididymostomy, is a surgical procedure for men who previously had a vasectomy and now wish to restore their fertility. It aims to reconnect the sperm-carrying tubes (vas deferens) to allow sperm to flow again, with the goal of achieving pregnancy.

Vasectomy Reversal (Vasovasotomy  or Vasoepididymostomy)

Recurrent UTIs mean experiencing frequent urinary tract infections. Common symptoms include burning with urination, urgency, and frequent urges to go. While often caused by bacteria, managing them typically involves working with a doctor for treatment and discussing preventive steps like good hydration and hygiene to help reduce future occurrences.

Recurrent UTIs

Infertility is when a couple has difficulty conceiving after one year of regular, unprotected sex (or six months if the woman is over 35). It can affect men, women, or both, often due to various underlying health conditions, age, or lifestyle factors like diet and stress. While challenging, many effective treatments and support options are available to help individuals and couples achieve pregnancy.

Infertility

Low testosterone (low T) occurs when your body doesn't produce enough of this key male hormone. Symptoms often include fatigue, reduced sex drive, mood changes, and decreased muscle/bone mass. Causes range from aging and health conditions to lifestyle factors; management may involve lifestyle adjustments (like diet and exercise) and, if appropriate, hormone therapy, all discussed with your doctor.

Low testosterone

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when a man has difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity. This common condition can be caused by physical factors like diabetes or heart disease, psychological stress, or lifestyle choices. Effective treatments and lifestyle changes, such as healthy diet and exercise, can often help improve ED.

Erectile dysfunction

Male incontinence is the unintentional leakage of urine, often due to weakened bladder muscles, prostate issues, or nerve damage. It's a common and treatable condition, manageable through lifestyle changes, exercises, medication, or other medical interventions. Discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider can help find effective solutions to improve quality of life.

Incontinence, male

Learning about a medical condition helps you understand its common signs, potential causes, and general management approaches. Healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can often support overall well-being and treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and care.

General information

Early stage prostate cancer means the cancer is localized to the prostate gland. It often has no symptoms and is more common with age or a family history. Treatment options vary, from active surveillance to other therapies, aiming for the best possible management.

(Early Stage Prostate Cancer) Cáncer de próstata estadio temprano

**Prostatectomía:** Es la cirugía para extirpar la glándula prostática, generalmente para tratar el cáncer de próstata. Es un paso importante para su salud, y la recuperación implica el manejo de posibles cambios urinarios o en la función sexual, con apoyo médico y seguimiento esenciales.

(Prostatectomy) Prostatectomía: Lo que debe saber

**Advanced Prostate Cancer**

Advanced prostate cancer means the disease has spread beyond the prostate, often to bones. Symptoms may include pain or fatigue. Treatment focuses on managing the cancer, slowing its growth, and improving well-being through therapies like hormone therapy or chemotherapy. Lifestyle choices and open communication with your care team are vital.

(Advanced Prostate Cancer) Cáncer de próstata avanzado

La Hiperplasia Prostática Benigna (HPB) es el crecimiento no canceroso de la próstata, común en hombres mayores, que puede causar síntomas urinarios como dificultad para orinar o micción frecuente. El tratamiento busca aliviar estos síntomas y mejorar la calidad de vida, e incluye cambios de estilo de vida, medicamentos o, si es necesario, procedimientos médicos, adaptándose a la severidad y las necesidades de cada persona.

(BPH) Hiperplasia prostática benigna (HPB) Tratamiento

Female Urology focuses on unique urinary and pelvic health issues affecting women, such as bladder control problems, frequent urination, or pelvic pain. Often linked to factors like childbirth, aging, or lifestyle, these conditions are treatable. Options range from lifestyle changes and therapy to medication or surgery, aiming to significantly improve comfort and quality of life.

(Female Urology) Urología femenina

La incontinencia urinaria en niños es la pérdida involuntaria de orina, ya sea durante el día o por la noche (enuresis). Es una condición común que puede deberse a diversos factores como el desarrollo de la vejiga, hábitos o causas médicas subyacentes. Los padres pueden apoyar a su hijo con ajustes en el estilo de vida y buscando orientación profesional, ya que a menudo es manejable con paciencia y el cuidado adecuado.

(Urinary Incontinence in Children) Incontinencia urinaria en niños: Lo que deben saber los padres

**Cáncer de riñón: Tratamiento**

El cáncer de riñón, que a veces causa sangre en la orina o dolor, se trata comúnmente con cirugía. Otras opciones incluyen terapias dirigidas e inmunoterapia. Adoptar hábitos saludables como una buena dieta y ejercicio es vital para la recuperación.

(Kidney Cancer Treatment) Cáncer de riñón: Tratamiento

Las infecciones urinarias (ITU) en niños ocurren cuando bacterias entran en el sistema urinario, afectando la vejiga o los riñones. Los síntomas pueden incluir fiebre, dolor o ardor al orinar, orina maloliente o cambios de ánimo. Generalmente se tratan con antibióticos. Una buena higiene y abundante hidratación son importantes para su prevención.

(UTI's in Children) Las ITU en los niños

**Hematuria (blood in the urine)** means there's blood present in your urine, which might look pink, red, or brown, or be invisible to the naked eye (microscopic). It can stem from various causes, like urinary tract infections, kidney stones, certain medications, or, less commonly, more serious conditions. While seeing blood can be alarming, it's often treatable once the underlying cause is identified by a doctor. Staying well-hydrated generally supports urinary tract health.

(Hematuria) Sangre in la orina

Las Infecciones del tramo urinario (ITU) ocurren cuando bacterias entran a las vías urinarias, causando síntomas como ardor al orinar, necesidad frecuente o urgente de ir al baño, y dolor en la parte baja del abdomen. Es fundamental consultar a un médico para un diagnóstico adecuado y un tratamiento, generalmente con antibióticos. Beber suficiente agua y mantener una buena higiene personal ayuda a su prevención.

(UTI) Infecciones del tramo urinario

La urología es la especialidad médica dedicada al estudio y tratamiento de las enfermedades del sistema urinario en hombres y mujeres, y del sistema reproductivo masculino. Los urólogos diagnostican y manejan afecciones que afectan los riñones, la vejiga, la próstata y otras estructuras relacionadas, buscando mejorar su salud y bienestar.

(Introduction to Urology) Introducción a la urología

**Premature Ejaculation (Eyaculación precoz)** is when a man ejaculates sooner than he or his partner wishes during sexual activity, often very quickly after penetration or even before. It's a common, treatable condition, potentially linked to psychological factors (anxiety, stress) or biological causes. Various treatment approaches, including behavioral techniques, counseling, or medication, are available. Talking to a doctor is the first step.

(Premature Ejaculation) Eyaculación precoz

Pediatric Urology is a medical specialty focused on the urinary and reproductive health of children, from infants to adolescents. These experts diagnose and treat various issues, such as birth defects, bladder problems, and infections, ensuring healthy development and function for your child.

(Pediatric Urology) Urología pediátrica

La disfunción eréctil (DE) es la dificultad recurrente para lograr o mantener una erección firme para la actividad sexual. Puede originarse por factores físicos como diabetes o enfermedades cardíacas, o por causas psicológicas como el estrés. Es una condición común con tratamientos efectivos; hábitos saludables como una buena dieta y ejercicio pueden ser beneficiosos.

(ED) Disfunción eréctil

Relaxation of pelvic floor muscles means the muscles supporting organs like the bladder and uterus have weakened. This can lead to symptoms such as urine leakage, bowel control issues, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness. Common causes include childbirth, aging, and chronic straining. Lifestyle changes and specific strengthening exercises (like Kegels) are often effective in managing these symptoms.

(Relaxation of Pelvic Floor Muscles) Relajación de los músculos del piso pélvico

Kidney stones (cálculos renales) are hard deposits that form in your kidneys, potentially causing severe pain in your back or side, nausea, or blood in urine. Often linked to dehydration, most pass with pain management and increased fluids. Staying well-hydrated is a key lifestyle choice for prevention.

(Kidney Stones) Cálculos Renales

Cáncer testicular es un cáncer que se origina en los testículos, a menudo presentándose como un bulto indoloro, hinchazón o sensación de pesadez. Aunque la causa es frecuentemente desconocida, el tratamiento suele incluir cirugía, a veces seguida de quimioterapia o radiación, con altas tasas de éxito cuando se detecta a tiempo.

(Testicular Cancer) Cáncer testicular

Peyronie's disease involves scar tissue (plaque) forming inside the penis, leading to a noticeable curve, pain during erections, and sometimes erectile dysfunction. It often results from minor penile trauma or injury. Treatment options, including medications or procedures, can help manage symptoms and improve function. Consult a doctor if you experience these changes.

(Peyronie's Disease) Peyronie

Bladder cancer (Cáncer de Vejiga) occurs when abnormal cells grow in the bladder lining. A common sign is blood in the urine, with smoking being a primary risk factor. Treatment varies, but quitting smoking and early detection are key for managing the condition.

(Bladder Cancer) Cáncer de Vejiga

Constantine Harris

Center For Urologic Care Of Berks County

Reading Hospital - Tower Health

Penn State - St. Joseph's Medical Center

Board Certified Urologist

Surgery (Urology)

Diseases where body cells grow abnormally and can spread.

Cancer

Problems with glands on your kidneys that make hormones for stress, energy, and blood pressure.

Adrenal conditions

Cancer conditions affecting the bladder, the organ storing urine.

Conditions affecting your bladder, kidneys, and how you urinate.

Bladder and Urinary Issues

Conditions where your body bleeds too easily or can't stop bleeding.

Bleeding Concerns

Problems that stop urine from flowing freely from your kidneys, bladder, or tubes.

Blockages in the Urinary Tract

Prostate problems that affect men's urination and health.

Prostate Conditions

Everyday health, wellness tips, and understanding how to manage your care.

General Health & Patient Education

Kidney Cancer

Cancers that start in the prostate gland, a male reproductive organ.

Conditions affecting male organs, fertility, and sexual health.

Men's Reproductive Health

Health conditions affecting sex organs, fertility, & sexual well-being.

Sexual and Reproductive Health

Problems with bladder, bowel, pain, or pelvic organ support.

Pelvic Floor & Pelvic Health

Conditions causing accidental urine leakage or loss of bladder control.

Urinary Incontinence

Conditions about getting pregnant, preventing it, and reproductive health.

Fertility and Family Planning

Health issues impacting women's bodies and well-being, including reproductive health.

Women's Health

Conditions affecting your kidneys and the tubes that carry urine.

Kidney & Ureter Conditions

Conditions from hard, stone-like deposits in kidneys and urinary tract.

Kidney Stones

Conditions affecting male and female reproductive organs and private areas.

Genital Conditions

Tests to find what's wrong or to check for health problems.

Screening and Diagnostic Procedures

Infections affecting your urinary tract, bladder, and private areas.

Urinary & Intimate Infections

Bladder problems preventing normal urine flow, requiring a new way for urine to exit the body.

Urinary Diversion

Health issues treated by operations and care for healing.

Surgical and Post-Surgical Care

Conditions that don't fit into other main groups. A mixed collection of health issues.

Other

Health problems causing physical aches, soreness, throbbing, or sharp pain.

Painful Conditions

Urinary and genital issues in babies, children, and teenagers.

Pediatric Urology Conditions

Symptoms are changes in how you feel or how your body works, such as pain, fever, or fatigue. They are your body's way of signaling an underlying health condition. Understanding your symptoms helps healthcare providers identify the cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Symptoms

Medical procedures are planned steps healthcare professionals take to diagnose, treat, or manage various health conditions. These can include diagnostic tests like imaging, therapeutic interventions, or surgical operations, all aimed at improving your health.

Constantine Harris, MD

Cancer basics

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