Interstitial Cystitis (IC), also known as Bladder Pain Syndrome, is a chronic condition causing uncomfortable bladder pressure, pain, and a persistent, urgent need to urinate frequently. While its exact cause is unknown, managing symptoms through lifestyle changes (like diet), medications, and various therapies can significantly improve comfort and quality of life.

Interstitial Cystitis

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, NSAIDs)

Amitriptyline

Cimetidine

Pentosan Polysulfate (Elmiron)

Interstitial Cystitis Association

Patient guide for download

IUGA Handout

Support Group information

Hunners Lesion Website

Jefferson Regional Web Profile

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

Hematuria means blood is present in your urine, making it appear pink, red, or brown, or it might be invisible to the naked eye. While causes range from minor issues like vigorous exercise to more serious concerns such as infections or kidney stones, it's always important to consult a doctor. They can determine the cause and guide appropriate care for your health.

Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a common, non-cancerous condition where the prostate gland grows, often affecting older men. This growth can press on the urethra, leading to urinary symptoms like frequent urination, weak flow, and difficulty emptying the bladder (urinary retention). These manageable symptoms can often be improved with lifestyle adjustments and medical guidance.

BPH, Enlarged Prostate, Urinary Retention

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

Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC) is a safe and common method where individuals use a thin, flexible tube (catheter) to regularly empty their bladder. This technique is used when the bladder cannot fully empty on its own, often due to nerve issues or certain medical conditions, helping to prevent infections and protect kidney health. CIC empowers individuals to manage their bladder function and maintain an active lifestyle.

Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC)

A cystoscopy is a common procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is gently inserted into the urethra to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra. It's often performed to investigate urinary problems like blood in urine, frequent infections, or bladder pain, helping doctors diagnose and sometimes treat issues directly.

Cystoscopy

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

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

Genitalia conditions involve various issues affecting the reproductive and urinary areas, such as itching, pain, discharge, or lumps. Causes range from infections and inflammation to structural concerns. Treatments often include medications or minor procedures. Practicing good hygiene and openly discussing any concerns with a healthcare professional are key for managing these common conditions.

Genitalia conditions

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is a common condition in post-menopausal women, stemming from lower estrogen, which causes symptoms like vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and urinary changes. Effective treatments, including lubricants, moisturizers, and specific therapies, can significantly improve comfort and quality of life, with staying well-hydrated also being helpful.

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

Female urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine, often triggered by activities like coughing or sneezing, or a sudden, strong urge to go. It's a common condition, often related to childbirth, menopause, or age. While common, it's manageable; lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, and other treatments can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.

Incontinence, Female

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

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

Kidney masses are abnormal growths on your kidney; some are cancerous (kidney cancer). Early stages often have no symptoms, but watch for blood in urine or side pain. While exact causes vary, lifestyle factors like smoking and obesity can increase risk. Treatment approaches depend on the mass and may include surgery or other medical therapies.

Kidney Masses/Cancer

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

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

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

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when pelvic organs like the bladder or uterus slip from their normal position and bulge into the vagina. This often results from weakened pelvic floor muscles due to childbirth, aging, or strain. Symptoms may include a feeling of pressure or a bulge. Management options involve lifestyle changes (like weight management), pelvic floor exercises, pessaries, or surgery.

Pelvic organ prolapse

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

Penile curvature, also known as Peyronie's disease, occurs when scar tissue forms inside the penis, causing a noticeable bend or curve during erection. This can lead to pain, shortening, or difficulty with sexual activity. While not life-threatening, it can impact quality of life; many treatment options are available, and discussing these with a healthcare provider is recommended.

Penile Curvature (Peyronies)

Phimosis is when the foreskin on the penis is too tight to retract easily, potentially causing discomfort, hygiene challenges, or difficulty with urination. While common in children and often resolving naturally, in adults it can result from inflammation or scarring. Treatment options vary, including steroid creams, gentle stretching, or circumcision, which is the surgical removal of the foreskin. Maintaining good hygiene is important for all uncircumcised individuals.

Phimosis/Circumcision

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

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

After prostate cancer surgery, recovery involves healing and managing potential side effects like urinary or sexual changes. Regular follow-up, including PSA tests, is crucial to monitor for any cancer recurrence and guide further care. Lifestyle choices like healthy eating and exercise support overall well-being during this time.

Prostate Cancer: After Surgery

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland, a small organ in men. Symptoms often include pelvic pain, discomfort with urination, and urinary urgency. It can result from bacterial infections or other non-infectious causes. Treatment may involve medication, and lifestyle adjustments like adequate hydration and avoiding irritants can help manage symptoms. It's a common and often treatable condition.

Prostatitis

Post-operative tips are vital instructions for your recovery after surgery. They guide you on managing pain, caring for your incision, understanding activity levels, and proper nutrition. Adhering to these tips is key to promoting healthy healing, preventing complications, and ensuring a safe return to your daily life. Your care team will provide specific guidance.

Post Operative Tips

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

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

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

Testicular pain is discomfort or soreness in one or both testicles. It can range from dull to sharp and may stem from various causes like injury, infection, or inflammation. Due to potential serious underlying issues, it's crucial to seek prompt medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care. Gentle support and rest may offer temporary relief.

Testicular Pain

Ureteral stents are thin, flexible tubes placed in the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder) to help urine drain from the kidney to the bladder. They are often used to relieve blockages, such as from kidney stones, or after surgery. While in place, it's common to experience increased urinary frequency, some bladder discomfort, or mild flank pain, especially during urination. Staying well-hydrated is important. Stents are temporary and will be removed by your doctor.

Ureteral Stents

A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. This can cause symptoms like a weak urine stream, difficulty emptying your bladder, or pain. It often results from injury, inflammation, or infection. Thankfully, it's a treatable condition to restore normal urine flow.

Urethral Stricture

UPJ Obstruction is a blockage where your kidney connects to the ureter, the tube that carries urine to the bladder. This can cause urine to back up, leading to symptoms like side pain, nausea, or infection. It can be present from birth or develop later, and treatments are available to ensure proper kidney drainage and health.

UPJ Obstruction

Varicocele is a common condition where veins within the scrotum become enlarged, similar to varicose veins in the leg. It often causes no symptoms, but can sometimes lead to a dull ache, a feeling of heaviness, or contribute to male infertility. Treatment, if necessary, may involve observation, pain management, or minor procedures, typically to address discomfort or fertility concerns.

Varicocele

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 recovery typically involves mild scrotal pain, swelling, and bruising, usually lasting a few days. Resting, applying ice packs, and wearing supportive underwear can help manage discomfort. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about a week, and remember that sterility is confirmed with follow-up testing.

Vasectomy Recovery

Nick Scherzer

Clinic Offices

Board Certified Urologist

Surgery (Urology)

Urologist

Member of the American Urological Association

Member of the Arkansas Urologic Society

Cancer conditions affecting the bladder, the organ storing urine.

Bladder cancer

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

Bladder and Urinary Issues

Diseases where body cells grow abnormally and can spread.

Cancer

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

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

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

Kidney Cancer

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

Conditions affecting male organs, fertility, and sexual health.

Men's Reproductive Health

Conditions affecting male and female reproductive organs and private areas.

Genital Conditions

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

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

Urinary & Intimate Infections

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

Screening and Diagnostic Procedures

Conditions that cause pain, aches, soreness, or general unease.

Pain and discomfort

Health issues treated by operations and care for healing.

Surgical and Post-Surgical Care

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

Fertility and Family Planning

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

Sexual and Reproductive Health

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

Other

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

General Health & Patient Education

Health issues that result in or involve pain.

Pain Management

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.

Nick Scherzer, MD

Interstitial Cystitis

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