How do men deal with incontinence?

While a man with urinary incontinence needs to see a urologist for proper and timely treatment, there are certain things he can do on his own to manage the symptoms. In fact, taking these actions will not only prevent and relieve symptoms, but also will help overcome incontinence.Ways of managing urinary incontinence in men include:

1. Keeping a diary

Keeping track of how much fluid you drink, how frequently you have to go to the bathroom, when and how often you leak urine, and anything that triggers your symptoms, such as drinking a lot of coffee, coughing or bending your body in a certain way is an effective way of monitoring your incontinence. Using the diary, your doctor can get a better grip of your symptoms and how they affect your life, and find the right tests necessary for correct diagnosis.

2. Regular double-voiding

Double-voiding is a great way to minimize dribbling. So when you finish urinating, you should wait for a minute or so and then try voiding again. If you succeed to pass urine in the second attempt, you’ll seldom dribble afterward.

3. Cutting down on caffeine and alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol irritate the bladder and often worsen incontinence symptoms. By cutting down the amount of tea, sodas, coffee and alcohol you drink, you’ll make a massive difference with your urinary incontinence symptoms.

4. Quitting smoking

Smoking tobacco aggravates urinary incontinence in men. So the sooner you quit tobacco the better for you.

5. Spacing apart your drinks

Staggering your fluid intake can help to ease the symptoms. For instance, if you are having a lot of trouble at night, drinking less fluid before going to bed might help. And when you have problems during the day, it might help to drink less fluid many hours before you travel or leave home for an event.

6. Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms

Certain foods trigger urinary incontinence symptoms in men. For example, spicy foods and acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits are common culprits. Likewise, artificial sweeteners and chocolate may trigger incontinence. While everyone is different, it’s wise to identify the foods that worsen your symptoms and avoid them.

7. Training the bladder

Training your bladder can help you to control urinary incontinence. You can do this by starting to take scheduled bathroom breaks whether you are feeling the urge to go or not. Then gradually extend the time you take between your bathroom trips, making a conscious effort to tame your symptoms and push yourself to only pass urine every 3 or 4 hours. Bladder training may not give immediate results, but if you persist, you’ll get positive results within a few months.

8. Flexing your bladder muscles

Exercising the right muscles will help strengthen them and improve your bladder control. Because exercising the wrong muscles may increase pressure on your bladder, you should correctly identify the ones you exercise. The right muscles to focus on are those you would use to stop yourself from passing gas.

So how do you flex them? Apply tension on the muscles for 3 seconds, then allow them to relax for another 3 seconds. Build up gradually until you’re able to do three sets of ten repetitions. You can perform these exercises anywhere — at your desk, in bed or when watching TV, but don’t do them when urinating as that can lead to infections. You should do the exercises for 15 minutes per day. While it usually takes 3-6 weeks to achieve the desired effect, positive results may be noticed soon by men who are doing the right exercises frequently.

9. Lose weight and stay hydrated

Excess weight increases pressure on the abdomen and makes urinary incontinence worse. By shedding a few pounds, you can reduce symptoms. Likewise, while it seems a good idea to drink less water in order to prevent leaks, drinking less only makes urine more concentrated and increases bladder irritation, resulting in more urinary incontinence. Therefore, if you’re thirsty, drink some water.

10. Treat constipation

Constipation, together with the strain that comes with it, can negatively affect the nerves that control bladder function. By eating a high-fiber diet and taking the necessary actions to prevent constipation, you may help your incontinence.

11. Speak with your doctor about any medication adverse effects

Some medications and supplements can cause or worsen your incontinence. For instance, sedatives, antidepressants, diuretics and various allergy and cold medicines may elicit urinary problems. So make sure your doctor is aware of the medicines and supplements you’re using and of any adverse effects you’re experiencing.

12. Planning ahead

A lot of men with urinary incontinence are anxious whenever they have to travel, fearing accidental urine leaks. To ease your anxiety when going on a road trip, make sure to map out the route and identify the places you’ll stop at regular intervals to use the bathroom. Going out with a plan will make you confident and less prone to accidental urine leaks.

13. Get support

Urinary incontinence can be both stressful and embarrassing and you may even feel lonely and hopeless. So you should make an effort to remain connected with your family and friends. Joining a support group also may be beneficial. Your doctor can help you find any support groups in your area.

Applying these techniques may help relieve urinary incontinence symptoms. But because on their own these techniques are inadequate for managing urinary incontinence, you should work closely with your doctor to find the best solutions for your condition, particularly if the symptoms are adversely affecting your life. It’s also prudent to always speak with your doctor before you try any of these techniques for managing urinary incontinence. If you’re looking for a urologist near you, then you can always see one of our urologists at Florida’s St Pete Urology in St. Petersburg. For more information on the right treatment plan for urinary incontinence in men, visit the “St. Pete Urology” site.

Vasectomy Reversal – Does it REALLY work?

A vasectomy reversal is the procedure to reconnect the tubes (vas deferens) that are cut and sealed off during a vasectomy. Though still considered a permanent method of birth control, advances in microsurgery have ensured that it can be reversed even after 15 years or more. Men can choose to undergo a vasectomy reversal after a remarriage, a change of heart, loss of a child, or to treat testicular pain associated with a vasectomy. The reversal is typically an outpatient procedure performed under general or local anesthesia, taking around 3 hours and followed by a short recovery period. Nevertheless, only about 6 percent of men who undergo a vasectomy choose to have it reversed later.

Success rate of vasectomy reversal

The success rate of reconnecting the tubes severed during vasectomy is quite high, about 90 percent. After a successful reconnection of each tube, sperm is again able to pass from the testicles through the tubes and reach semen, and a man may again be able to get his partner pregnant. But the success of a vasectomy depends on a number of factors, such as the state of the tubes during the reversal and how many years have elapsed since the vasectomy was done.

If you undergo a vasectomy reversal within seven years of the vasectomy, the reversal is a simple procedure of putting the vas deferens back together. But if the tubes are too short to reconnect, if there is scarring or it’s been more than seven years since you had the vasectomy, the reversal process may be more complex. However, even with the more complex procedure, the success rate is still around 50-60 percent with no much difference in pregnancy rates — the average being 50-60 percent likelihood of pregnancy, which drops to 44 percent if time since a vasectomy is greater than 15 years.

If the time since vasectomy is less than 15 years, the reversal provides a pregnancy rate that’s higher than in vitro fertilization (IVF) and sperm aspiration with intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). And even after intervals greater than 15 years since a vasectomy, the reversal still gives outcomes equal or greater than IVF with ICSI.

Vasectomy reversal techniques

Vasectomy reversal is usually performed in two ways. The first technique is vasovasostomy (VV), which is basically the piecing back together of the two sides of the tubes (vas deferens) — that is vas deferens to vas deferens. The other technique is vasoepididymostomy (VE), which involves reconnecting the vas deferens to epididymis, the duct that transports sperm to the vas deferens. Generally vasovasostomy (VV) is done if sperm is present in the vas fluid. If sperm isn’t present in the fluid, vasoepididymostomy (VE) is the go-to procedure. In some cases, a combination of both techniques may be necessary, with a vasoepididymostomy done on one side and a vasovasostomy on the other.

A vasoepididymostomy is slightly more complicated and therefore chosen only when a vasovasostomy is impossible or can’t work. You won’t know the technique that the surgeon will use until the operation begins and that usually depends on whether sperm is present in the fluid found in the vas deferens at the time of surgery. Both are outpatient procedures that take less than 3 hours. A man has a successful vasectomy reversal if sperm evaluations performed several months later indicate he has the normal sperm count necessary for conception.

How should you prepare for a vasectomy reversal?

A vasectomy reversal is a complex and expensive procedure that’s often not covered by insurance. So you should find out what you’ll need and all the costs well ahead of time. The procedure is generally more successful when performed by surgeons who are trained and experienced in microsurgical techniques and who have done the procedure several times. So when choosing a doctor for the procedure, find out how many reversals the surgeon has performed, the techniques used, how often pregnancy has occurred after surgery, and the risks and complications involved.

Similarly, you’ll need to buy tight-fitting undergarments (like an athletic supporter) that you will wear after the procedure to hold bandages in place and support your scrotum. You also will need to stop taking medications that increase the risk of bleeding, including pain relievers (like ibuprofen or aspirin) and blood-thinning drugs. You should make arrangements for your travel to and from the hospital and for the length of time you will need to recover after surgery.

What should you know before a vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomy reversal is performed as an outpatient procedure that doesn’t require an overnight stay in a hospital. Before the procedure, the surgeon will take your medical history and conduct a physical examination to make sure you’re not having any health problems that may lead to complications after or during surgery. If your physical exam shows abnormal results or you’ve got sexual function issues, the doctor may consider running some blood tests. Likewise, a review of your surgical history is done to assess whether you had any previous surgeries other than the vasectomy or prior injuries that can hinder the vasectomy reversal. The doctor also will confirm whether you can produce healthy sperm. While evidence of fathering a child before is usually sufficient proof of the health of your sperm, additional testing may be necessary if there is uncertainty.

What happens during a vasectomy reversal?

Once you’re in the operating room, anesthesia is applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. That may either be general anesthesia to keep you unconscious throughout the procedure or a local, spinal or epidural anesthesia to minimize pain but without putting you to sleep. The surgeon then makes a small incision on the underside of your scrotum to expose the tubes (vas deferens) and free them from surrounding tissues. Cutting open the vas deferens, the surgeon examines the fluid inside the tubes to establish whether sperm is present. If it’s found that sperm is present, the doctor simply reconnects the ends of the tubes to enable sperm passage. If the fluid inside the vas deferens is pasty, thick or contains partial or no sperm, that’s usually an indication that there’s a blockage of sperm flow and that vasovasostomy may not work. In that case, vasoepididymostomy is the more appropriate procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

After the procedure, the doctor applies bandages to cover the incisions. Make sure to ask your doctor when it will be OK to take the bandages off. The stitches applied should dissolve in 7-10 days. You will be required to wear tight-fitting undergarments (like athletic supporter) and apply ice to minimize swelling. The area may feel sore for many days, but the pain shouldn’t be severe and should improve within a few days to one week.

Once back at home, make sure to take it easy and avoid any activities that may move the testicles excessively or pull on the scrotum or testicles, such as heavy lifting, biking, jogging or sporting activities. For the next several weeks, wear an athletic supporter at all times, removing it only when showering. Avoid activities such as swimming and bathing for the first two days following surgery because they can make the surgery site wet. If your job requires much driving, walking or physical exertion, seek your doctor’s advice on when it’s safe to return to work. But for a desk job, you can return to work within a few days after surgery — only making sure that nothing harms the surgery site. Do not ejaculate or engage in sexual intercourse until your doctor gives you a go ahead — that is often 2-3 weeks after surgery.

What results should you expect?

To assess the success of a vasectomy reversal, the doctor will examine your semen 6-8 weeks after surgery. If the procedure is successful, sperm will be present in the semen. The appearance of sperm in semen should happen within a few months, but may take a year or more in some cases. So the doctor may have to conduct periodic semen analysis to evaluate the success of the procedure, unless your partner gets pregnant soon after the reversal. The prospect of achieving pregnancy usually depends on a number of factors, including the age of your female partner and the duration of time that has elapsed since the vasectomy.

Can the reversal fail to work?

If a blockage develops in the tubes after surgery or there is an underlying issue with your testicles that wasn’t recognized during surgery, a vasectomy reversal can fail to work and you may need a second-attempt reversal procedure. Doctors often opt to collect and freeze some sperm during a vasectomy reversal, which can then be used if the procedure doesn’t work. But if sperm isn’t frozen during the procedure or you completely lack sperm in your ejaculate, sperm can still be retrieved directly from your epididymis or testicle to help you have children via assisted reproductive techniques, like in vitro fertilization.

At St Pete Urology, we have a huge pool of urologists trained in andrology and experienced in microsurgical techniques. We conduct the procedure under very high-level magnification using incredibly small sutures. We perform several vasectomy reversals every year and boast significantly high success rates. So if you are looking for specially trained and skilled doctors to reverse a vasectomy in a way that will maximize your chances of having children, come and see one of our urologists. For more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversal procedures, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

GreenLight PVP Laser, a Great Treatment Option for BPH

Photo-selective Vaporization of Prostate (PVP) is increasingly becoming a popular method of treating benign prostatic enlargement (enlarged prostate or BPH). Using a combination of a high-powered laser beam and fiber optics to vaporize overgrowths of cells in the prostate, PVP helps to shrink the prostate gland quickly and accurately and swiftly relieves symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. The GreenLight Laser PVP is an alternative to the more common TURP (Transurethral Resection of Prostate). While the PVP procedure offers equal effectiveness in improving BPH symptoms, it’s simpler, has minimal short-term side effects, and offers quicker symptom relief, comfort and ease of urine flow.

How Is The Procedure Performed?

Conducted as an outpatient procedure by a urologist trained in the technique, the GreenLight Laser PVP requires nerve-blocking, spinal or general anesthesia along with sedation. During the procedure, the urologist inserts a cystoscope (tube supplied with light) via the urethra into the prostate, then runs a thin fiber through the cystoscope and places it in the urethra just adjacent to the obstruction. The urologist directs the laser at the prostate with intense pulses of light radiating from the ends of the fiber that are absorbed by blood.

As the blood absorbs light its temperature increases rapidly, heating up and vaporizing nearby cells. The surgeon continues to apply the laser light to destroy tissue overgrowth and reduce restriction on the urethra. The tissue that’s evaporated seals the blood vessels and reduces bleeding. The procedure takes roughly 40-60 minutes and a temporary catheter is usually inserted to help drain urine from the bladder.

So what are the benefits of Laser PVP?

  1. Minimal bleeding.
  2. Patients return home the same day.
  3. Return to normal activities in 2-3 days with caution.
  4. Only about 30 percent of patients require a post-op catheter.
  5. Return to strenuous activities in 4-6 weeks.
  6. Complications are rare, but quite mild if they occur.
  7. No post-operative impotence.
  8. PVP has not been associated with erectile dysfunction.
  9. Less likely to cause retrograde ejaculation.
  10. Lasting improvement in urine flow.
  11. Urinary obstruction is less likely with PVP.

Recovery after GreenLight Laser PVP

After laser PVP, patients remain in a recovery area where they are observed and prepared for discharge, typically within a few hours. If a temporary catheter is inserted, it’s usually removed 2-3 days after treatment, but may be left for a longer period in men who have had very severe symptoms or suffered prior bladder damage. During the first week following the procedure, a slight burning and discomfort may be experienced when urinating and small amounts of blood may occur in urine. While a dramatic improvement of symptoms and urine flow occurs within 1-2 days after the procedure, patients may still experience frequency and a sudden urge to pass urine for some time after treatment since the urethra is still adjusting to changes. And those with multiple health problems may not realize improvement that quickly.

Many men resume normal activities three days or so after laser PVP, but it’s recommended that they refrain from heavy lifting, pushing, strenuous exercise and vibrating equipment for at least 2 weeks because such activities may aggravate the urogenital area and cause bleeding. Sexual activity should be avoided for 2-3 weeks and only resumed when the patient is really comfortable doing so. It’s crucial to take things slowly and realize that it’ll take a while to get everything back to normal, including sexual desire. At times, retrograde ejaculation or reduced volume may occur, but these do not affect sexual pleasure or orgasm.

Is Laser PVP Safe?

The GreenLight Laser PVP is a significant improvement on the other minimally-invasive procedures used to treat BPH. It accurately vaporizes the overgrowth of the prostate gland without damaging any surrounding tissues and vessels. High-powered energy beams are delivered through a very thin laser fiber resulting in safe and precise vaporization of the overgrown tissue that’s blocking normal urine flow. As the high-pulsed laser removes the tissue causing blockage, it coagulates blood vessels and minimizes bleeding. Compared to other options for treating BPH, the GreenLight Laser PVP is much safer, simpler, faster, more precise and more effective. And most importantly, it allows quicker recovery than the other treatment options.

How does laser PVP compare with TURP?

Previously, effective BPH treatment required open prostatectomy — a major abdominal operation that needed a longer hospital stay and several months for recovery. But with the availability of instruments for accessing the prostate via the urethra instead of through the abdomen, TURP (transurethral resection of prostate) became the preferred treatment as it offered more safety, efficiency and effectiveness. However, there was still need for a better treatment that could offer quicker results, shorter recovery times and fewer long-term side-effects. The GreenLight Laser PVP has proven an improvement on TURP by being less invasive, delivering more immediate results and providing shorter recovery periods.

At St Pete Urology, we recommend transurethral vaporization procedures, most commonly the PVP GreenLight Laser and HoLAP (Holmium Laser Ablation), as alternatives for the previous gold standard TURP (Transurethral Resection of Prostate) because they are minimally-invasive outpatient operations with lower risks, durable results, safe use on large glands and patients on blood thinners, and high patient satisfaction. We perform the PVP GreenLight Laser on patients eligible for TURP, but discuss all the treatment options with our patients before we make a choice. For more information on treatment and care for BPH, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

What Does A Urologist Do?

If you have never been to a urologist, you may feel uneasy about your first visit. You may be seeing the urologist about a very awkward and distressing condition. In truth, though, there is no reason really to worry or feel squeamish. Urologists make every effort to keep their patients at ease and as comfortable as possible. So you can be sure that you’ll meet warm, friendly and candid professionals in the urologist office, be handled with respect, courtesy and friendliness, and have your problem solved.

Who is a urologist?

Urologists are physicians with specialization in diseases of the genitourinary tract — urinary bladder, kidneys, urethra, male reproductive organs, adrenal glands and urethra. In men, urologists tackle disorders of the prostate, penis, epididymis, testes and seminal vesicles and help resolve male sexual dysfunction and infertility. But most routinely, they see both men and women for various reasons, including recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, kidney disease, renal transplants, urologic cancers, bladder prolapse, enlarged prostate, urethra stricture, erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, painful bladder syndrome, ureteral and kidney stones, and prostatitis. They also may see children with urological problems that are too complex to be handled by non-specialized pediatricians.

Prostate and bladder cancer

For most men, a visit to the urologist is often associated with the prostate exam. The exam is quite a crucial part of assessing the overall prostate health and enables the urologist to plan well for treatment of any prostate problems. But the prostate exam is no longer at the heart of every urologist visit and you now can see a urologist and leave without being examined. In fact, with increased use of PSA tests to screen for prostate cancer, the exams are now just performed when very crucial. You shouldn’t avoid those necessary visits to a urologist merely because you don’t like prostate and rectal exams.

Remember also that if after testing you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, your urologist can help by offering timely, lifesaving care. Actually, because the physician can detect and help you recover from a disease that can potentially incapacitate you and reduce your joy of life and the time you spend with your family and your loved ones, it’s very important to visit a urologist whenever you are directed to do so.

Urologists use some of the best medical techniques and technologies to deliver safe, painless and effective treatment for urologic cancers. For example, if your urologist opts for robotic surgery then you will not be in the hospital for more than a week after a kidney, prostate or bladder cancer surgery. Most likely, you will take only a few days, even a single day — leaving soon after procedure. That’s fast and convenient, indeed. So you shouldn’t suffer in silence and have your prostate cancer spread to other areas of the body just because you believe the treatment will be painful, uncomfortable or inconvenient.

Prostate enlargement

If you have had to habitually wake up at night to pass urine and always find it difficult to produce a steady, quick urine stream as you once did, you probably have an enlarged prostate and a urologist can help you overcome the condition. This specialist doctor is quite similar to that neighborhood plumber you call to your home when pipes are clogged. So when you visit a urologist, are examined and found to have an enlarged prostate, the doctor will use a number of techniques such as laser therapy and steam treatment to remove the pressure on your bladder and obstruction on your urethra, relieving your urinary symptoms. And you can return home the same day you undergo treatment.

Erectile dysfunction

As men get older, they may experience erectile dysfunction. In fact, for men in their 40s or 50s, erections aren’t what they once were. So what should you do when you have issues with your erections? Well, one great option — a visit to a specialist who can identify the cause of your erectile problems and provide effective treatment. And that’s a urologist — a physician with training and experience in treating erectile dysfunction and male infertility issues. Since erectile dysfunction also may indicate that you have health problems in other areas of your body which may require more careful attention, a visit to a urologist can help detect a more serious disease and save your life.

Kidney stones

The pain and discomfort of a major kidney stone is something you may never forget. But with a visit to a urologist, kidney stones of all sizes can be broken down and removed from your system. A urologist sees such cases routinely, knows exactly what to do and will help you find quick relief from the pain and discomfort of the stones. And since kidney stones may recur, you will require the long-term care and well-coordinated follow-up provided by urologists. The urologist will recommend effective ways you can use to prevent kidney stones and manage any painful stones you may develop. That means you can rest easy before or after you have kidney stones knowing that you have an expert to help you deal with such troubles. So if you suspect that you have or are at risk of kidney stones, visit a urologist for proper examination and treatment.

What if you are a woman?

Urologists see women too and there is no discrimination in terms of sex. In fact, because kidney stones and bladder problems can occur in both men and women, the doors of all urologists are always open for both sexes. Nevertheless, about two-thirds of all patients seen by urologists are still men because of the lower awareness levels among women on how these specialist physicians can help them. Likewise, visits to urologists are generally practice-specific and vary according to a doctor’s area of specialty training.

While it doesn’t really matter whether you see a male or female urologist — as the quality of care will be the same — some women prefer to be treated by female urologists while some men prefer seeing male urologists. That’s just a matter of choice and you are encouraged to see the urologist you feel most comfortable with. But as you do so, remember that all urologists are focused on holistic care, effective treatment, superb outcomes and improved quality of life for all. So even if you are a guy who is generally bashful when around females, you shouldn’t fear seeing a female urologist, for whatever condition you have isn’t something the female urologist hasn’t seen before. Don’t suffer in silence because you are anxious about being attended to by a urologist of opposite gender.

What of pain?

Pain isn’t part of the treatment process. So every time you see a urologist for a procedure, you should expect the use of an anesthetic to prevent pain and keep you comfortable. For instance, before undergoing a bladder scope, you’ll be numbed first; while the first step during a vasectomy is the injection of a nice, healthy-sized local anesthesia. Similarly, before a prostate biopsy, a prostate block is done. Whereas you may feel things moving around or some pressure during a procedure, you should not feel pain. And the point here is that you should know urologists are there to help you deal with inconveniencing problems, such as sexual function issues, urinary problems, cancer or kidney stones. But when doing so, they endeavor to keep you as comfortable as possible, aiming to eventually improve your quality of life.

Friendly, compassionate care

Urologists are skilled and experienced in treating problems that people are often unwilling to talk about or which are found in body areas that people find difficult to discuss. So your urologist knows that you are already distressed, embarrassed and feel awkward about your condition even before you visit, and has already taken steps to make you feel as comfortable as possible. By being frank and friendly throughout the treatment process, with humor coming in handy to help lighten the mood around your discussions, the doctor will ensure that you feel at home as your problem is tackled. Hence, don’t be surprised when some “potty” humor is thrown your way during your chat with the urologist.

Well, that’s it. There is nothing to dread or feel restless about in seeing a urologist. In fact, you will find a long-term friend who will help you overcome troubling urological issues and improve your quality of life. At St Pete Urology, we have a big pool of skilled, experienced, board-certified urologists to help you find relief from embarrassing and distressing genitourinary problems, such as kidney stones, urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and enlarged prostate. And we have a culture of collaborative, compassionate, patient-centered care that helps us deliver the high-quality of treatment and care we promise our patients. Find out more about our services by visiting the “St Pete Urology” site.

Addressing 7 Vasectomy Myths

Alright guys, it’s time now to talk about the big V! When you hear about different birth control methods, whether through word-of-mouth, billboards, newspapers, TV or radio, you seldom hear anything about vasectomy. We want to talk to you about vasectomy now, explain away the myths and fears around it and shift the birth control discourse from the most common approach of what women should do to what men can do.

So what’s a vasectomy?

It is a simple, 15-minute non-drug permanent sterilization procedure for men. It’s performed under localized anesthesia and involves sealing off or cutting a portion of the sperm-conveying tubes (called vas deferens) in order to stop sperm from reaching the ovum when ejaculation occurs. If you are a man who has had all the children you wanted to have or are sure that you will never want to have any children in the future, vasectomy is a safe and cost-effective way to sterilize yourself.

Lots of questions

Yet, if you are like most men, you have probably heard the horror stories associated with vasectomy and you are worried that things may go wrong for you. Will it reduce my sexual pleasure? Will it turn me into a “eunuch” — a sad miserable man looking back constantly to his youthful years with nostalgia? And what if disaster strikes late in my life, or my life plans change, and I decide to have children? Can I reverse it? These and many more questions can make you have doubts about having a vasectomy. But it turns out these fears are baseless myths that shouldn’t stop you from a vasectomy.

What are the most frequent myths about vasectomy?

1. It will be intolerably painful

Honestly, for most men, the idea of the whole procedure can seem quite awkward. And since most of us have the habit of protecting our testicles from any type of direct assaults, a vasectomy seems like a real intrusion into a protected zone. But the truth is doctors who conduct vasectomies have gone through many years of study and training. They know what they are doing. They use the latest minimally invasive techniques to perform the procedure, ensuring that you feel no pain. The procedure is done under local anesthetic, so you will probably only have to worry about the needle going in. After that, you will remain aware of the procedure as it goes on but you will feel no pain or uncomfortable sensations.

2. Your penis won’t work

That’s wrong, mate. In reality, the procedure isn’t done anywhere near your penis — except of course if it’s causing an obstruction and the urologist has to move it out of the way. The snip is entirely about your balls and affects only those little tubes inside your balls that are called the vas deferens. Remember too that when you have sex and reach orgasm, the fluid that comes out, called ejaculate, is 97 percent semen and only 3 percent sperm. After vasectomy, you will still achieve orgasm and produce this ejaculate, except it won’t contain sperm and you won’t be able make your partner pregnant. That means your erections will remain exactly the same and your penis will stay as sensitive during sex as it was before the vasectomy. Likewise, your ability to enjoy sex and achieve orgasm will remain unchanged, though now you’ll be able to do so without having to worry about making anyone pregnant.

3. You will no longer ejaculate

That’s wrong, too. If you ejaculated before the snip, you’ll continue to do so after. Semen, the main component of ejaculatory fluid, is produced in the seminal vesicles and the prostate, which aren’t cut or blocked off during a vasectomy. And since only a small portion of fluid comes from the testicles with sperm, the overall volume of your ejaculate will reduce only slightly after a vasectomy — you won’t even notice it. Likewise, because the muscle contractions that propel fluid out during ejaculation typically come from the pelvis, your ejaculations won’t be affected by a vasectomy.

4. Your sperm production will shut down

Not true. Vasectomy doesn’t block sperm production and you’ll continue to make sperm after the snip. The only difference is that sperm will no longer reach semen and form part of the ejaculate. Because the sperm will go nowhere after a vasectomy, it will live for 3-5 days and decay naturally in the body. This is the same thing that happens naturally in men if they don’t ejaculate every 5 days or so. They produce sperm continuously but the sperm goes nowhere and is reabsorbed naturally in the body.

5. You can’t reverse it once it’s done

No, you can if you want. Vasectomy can be reversed through a surgical procedure called vasovasostomy (vasectomy reversal). During the procedure, the vas deferens (tubes) are reconnected, with each tube re-joined as it was before the snip in order to create a passageway for sperm, allowing sperm to again be present in semen. A successful reversal procedure restores your fertility and you can again make your partner pregnant. But when considering a vasectomy reversal, you need to consult an experienced urologist. That will ensure that no tissues are irreparably damaged during the reversal procedure.

6. Even if it’s reversed, you’ll remain impotent

Not really. With microsurgical advances currently used in vasectomy and vasovasostomy, the reversal has become more precise and more successful. So while vasectomy reversal is still technically expensive and demanding, doctors can now successfully restore a man to his pre-vasectomy condition. Although many men think that vasectomy can make them impotent, they should know that the procedure has no effect on blood flow to the spongy veins of the penis. These veins cause an erection. A vasectomy tends to make love-making more pleasurable and fun through the exhilarating feeling accompanying the ejaculation of spermless semen and also by erasing the fear of pregnancy.

7. It’s harder than a woman getting her tubes tied

A nice try indeed, but still wrong. Tubal ligation is performed under epidural or general anesthesia and typically takes longer than the 10-20 minutes required for a vasectomy. Tying a woman’s tubes also comes with a much more serious complication rate than a vasectomy. So why not just take the simpler route to contraception and block the source of sperm in order to remove the burden of birth control from women instead of looking for excuses to pressure women with contraception? After all, vasectomy is more effective than tubal ligation, costs much less and guarantees better results. In fact, for partners and couples considering family planning, vasectomy is a great cost-saving and effective solution to consider.

What if you are just one of those men who want to have multiple sexual partners without any additional responsibilities? Well, vasectomy works for that too. If you get a vasectomy, you can enjoy your lifestyle without having to worry about the possibility of fatherhood.

Want to know more about vasectomy? Speak with your partner and assess whether you have had all the children you want. Once you are sure of your decision, visit your doctor to discuss this birth control method. For more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversal, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

Early Signs of an Enlarged Prostate

As you grow older, your prostate also grows and swells. But if it becomes very large, it can lead to a condition called BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), which simply means your prostate has grown too large though not cancerous. Usually called an enlarged prostate, BPH is a frequent condition in men, especially those in their 50s or older. It is primarily caused by excess DHT, an extremely powerful form of testosterone which triggers aggressive multiplication of prostate cells. Recent studies also indicate that excessive estrogen in the body plays a role in the overgrowth of the prostate.

How can you know that you have an enlarged prostate?

Located right next to the bladder, the prostate is a tiny, walnut-sized gland that’s vital for the normal functioning of the male reproductive system. It is wrapped around the urethra (the tube that takes urine away from the bladder) and significantly influences how the urethra transports both sperm and semen. As the prostate grows and swells, it puts a lot of pressure on the bladder and can obstruct urine flow through the urethra, resulting in various urinary issues.

If you have an enlarged prostate, you will:

  1. Find it difficult to urinate.
  2. Experience dribbling after urinating.
  3. Feel the need to urinate frequently, often at night.

The early warning signs of BPH include:

1. Weak or slow urination

As your prostate enlarges, it puts pressure on your urethra and bladder, interrupting urine flow, resulting in either a weak flow or a prolonged stay in the bathroom. This is a very early and most common sign of BPH, and you’ve probably heard older men joke about how long they take to urinate. So when you have an enlarged prostate, urine does not exit normally and the resulting stream is quite weak.

2. Leaking of urine

Those embarrassing wet spots on your pants may just be the warning that you have an enlarged prostate. Why? Because a swollen prostate not only makes it difficult to urinate, but also makes it harder to retain urine in your bladder, resulting in urine leakage. The enlarged prostate also puts a lot of pressure both on your urethra and on your bladder and compromises your normal ability to hold urine.

3. Straining when urinating

Normal urination requires no effort. So if you find yourself groaning and suffering every time you are in the urinal, it may indicate that your prostate is clamping hard on your urethra.

4. Waking up several times at night to urinate

An enlarged prostate also puts extra pressure on the bladder, producing a sensation that the bladder is full even when it really isn’t. Thus waking up often at night to pass urine may indicate that you have BPH.

5. High PSA during a blood test

While prostate-specific antigen is produced in small quantities in men with healthy prostate glands and plays the critical role of liquefying semen by breaking down large seminal proteins, high levels of PSA may indicate that you have an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer. Make sure that you speak with a doctor if a test shows that you have high PSA in your blood.

6. Sexual dysfunction

BPH can trigger erectile dysfunction and difficulty with ejaculation by applying extreme pressure on the urethra (which transports both urine and semen) and reducing your sexual function. So if you are finding it difficult to have an erection or ejaculation, you should see your doctor for an examination to identify the problem. It may just be an enlarged prostate.

How can a urologist help?

When you experience the warning signs, you need to see your doctor to determine if you have an enlarged prostate. If an examination establishes that you have BPH, the urologist will recommend the right treatment. The most common approaches to treating BPH include:

1. Watchful waiting (active surveillance): If during assessment it is found that your symptoms are mild and not very troublesome, the urologist may recommend that you wait for a while before you commence treatment. Your symptoms will be monitored during this period to see if they are getting worse and require intervention. Your doctor will determine how frequent you need to go for checkup. The treatment can be started later if the symptoms worsen.

2. Medications: Your urologist may recommend medicines for shrinking the prostate gland or to relax the muscles around the gland in order to reduce or relieve symptoms. Make sure to speak with your doctor about possible side effects of these medicines.

3. Surgery: If medicines fail, the urologist may suggest that you undergo surgery to help improve urine flow. Different types of surgical procedures can be used, so talk to your doctor about the right option for you and about the risks involved. After surgery, regular medical checkups are very important.

4. Other treatments: To reduce the extra prostate tissue and relieve urinary problems associated with BPH, treatments such as microwaves, lasers or radio waves may be considered.

Want to know more about the health issues associated with the prostate, their diagnosis and treatment? Or you suspect that you have a prostate problem and want to speak to a knowledgeable and experienced urologist? Get all the information and help you need today by visiting the “St Pete Urology” site.

How To Manage The Pain Of Kidney Stones?

Marked by an agonizing, excruciating and intolerable pain, kidney stones account for over 1 million annual emergency room visits in the United States. The pain usually starts in the upper flank, as a sudden twinge on the side, escalates to the loins and migrates to the front of the body. The sharp stabbing pain of kidney stones is worse than childbirth pain and quickly makes it impossible to function. It is important for you to know how to prevent kidney stones and how to deal with the pain if you get the stones.

What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are small, hard pebble-like lumps formed when there are high levels of various minerals in urine. The minerals and other substances crystallize and form hard masses before they can be flushed away. Classic stones are a blend of calcium and oxalate (an organic acid found in urine), but lumps of uric acid, calcium phosphate and other substances also may form. A stone may sit in the kidney or ureter with little or no pain. But often when the stone leaves the kidney or gets stuck in the ureter, it blocks the flow of urine and causes pain.

Symptoms of kidney stones

When a kidney stone moves around in the kidney or gets lodged in the ureter, it may block the passage of urine. Such a blockage causes:

  1. Sharp, stabbing pain on the side or in the back.
  2. Painful urination.
  3. Pain episodes that come and go.
  4. Blood in urine.
  5. Fever, nausea and vomiting in case of an infection.

Kidney stones are perhaps the most painful condition known. In fact, most patients with stones often find themselves in the hospital emergency department. In all cases of pain due to suspected kidney stones, urologists first rule out other possible causes of pain, such as bowel, gynecologic and musculoskeletal problems. The presence of kidney stones is confirmed by X-rays or CT scans. Blood and urine tests also may be used to assess the levels of various stone-forming substances in your system.

Managing Pain Due To Kidney Stones

Once it is confirmed that you have kidney stones, the urologist will give you intravenous painkillers to relieve pain. You then will be sent home with oral drugs (such as acetaminophen, aspirin, diuretics, and antibiotics) to use as you wait for the stone to pass out of your system. Drinking plenty of water, taking hot showers, sitting in a warm water tub and taking drugs that dilate the ureter will bring relief and allow the stone to pass. Eventually the agony will end when the stone passes out.

Smaller stones are more likely to pass on their own. In fact, 80 percent of kidney stones are usually less than 4 mm in diameter and typically pass on their own, though that takes up to 31 days. It is more difficult for larger stones to pass on their own. Stones of 4-6 mm in diameter tend to pass on their own 60 percent of the time while those larger than 6 mm only pass out 20 percent of the time. Therefore in most cases, a non-invasive or minimally-invasive medical procedure is necessary to remove stones larger than 4 mm and those stuck in the ureter.

Surgery for Kidney Stones

Non-obstructive stones rarely cause pain. So surgery is not necessary when kidney stones are not causing any obstruction. And even if they cause pain, medications are usually sufficient. But surgery is required when there is bothersome flank pain and imaging evidence of one or more obstructive stones.

Common surgical treatments include:

  1. Shockwave lithotripsy: A simple outpatient procedure in which sound waves are directed on kidney stones, breaking them into smaller pieces capable of passing on their own in urine.
  2. Ureteroscopy: An outpatient procedure for small-to-medium stones in which a small tube (ureteroscope) is inserted into the urinary tract and used to pull out stones or to direct laser to the stones to break them into smaller pieces.
  3. Percutaneous nephrolithotripsy: A procedure in which the urologist makes a small incision in the back and directly into the kidney, using the incision to access and remove stones. It is the most effective method for very large kidney stones.

Preventing Kidney Stones

Lifestyle changes can help you to avoid having kidney stones. For instance, drinking at least two-and-a-half liters of water every day will help you to achieve a daily urine production of two liters, which prevents stones. Fluids such as coffee and citrus juices also are very effective in preventing kidney stones. Citrus (especially from lemon and grapefruit) makes urine more alkaline and reduces the risk of almost all kinds of stones. But you must avoid sugary juices, as the sweetener in them may increase your risk of having stones and undo the good effects of the juice.

If you have had a bout of kidney stones before, you have a greater risk of getting stones. So depending on the chemical constituents of your first kidney stones, you may have to limit intake of certain foods, such as sugar, salt, proteins and dairy products. For calcium oxalate stones, you will have to cut down the amount of meat, eggs, shellfish, peanuts, spinach, chocolate, sweet potatoes, rhubarb and beetroot from your diet. For uric acid stones, taking allopurinol (a gout medication) will help prevent future episodes. Potassium citrate pills and thiazide family of diuretics (indapamide, chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide) are also effective in preventing all calcium-based stones.

Looking for advice or help with kidney stones? At St Pete Urology, we offer timely and accurate advice, diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones. Our multidisciplinary, compassionate, patient-centered approach will ensure you get the best possible care. Don’t suffer the pain of kidney stones for a day more while we can help you get quick relief. For more information, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

What It Actually Feels Like To Get A Vasectomy

You are married and got the number of kids you always wanted. You also have decided that your family is now complete, right? So, a vasectomy it is, then. For you know that three months after a vasectomy, you will be almost 100 percent sure of no pregnancy. And that it is reversible, with 40-90 percent success rate. That’s great. Now you can go for it and enjoy wonderful times together thereafter with your spouse — no more kids to worry about.

Ready to go?

Well, yes. But there is a problem. You don’t know what it feels like to have a vasectomy and that worries you. Will it hurt? What if something goes awfully wrong down there? How long will it take to get back to 100 percent? The Internet provides answers, but you can’t tell which answers are correct. You find several men saying the experience was so easy that they were able to run a marathon the day after. But others are complaining that their experience made them feel less of a man.

Learning from others

Both sound too extreme. You want to clear the gray areas; you want true, non-medical real-talk. You want to hear from a man who has had a vasectomy and can understand your concerns. Let’s talk about what you will experience, or rather what I experienced.

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a method of birth control that prevents pregnancy by stopping the supply of sperm to your semen. The tubes (vas deferens) carrying sperm from the epididymis to your ejaculatory ducts are sealed to prevent sperm from moving and getting into the semen. So you continue to ejaculate semen that doesn’t contain sperm and can’t cause pregnancy.

How is a vasectomy done?

Your doctor cuts open your scrotum to access the testicles (two balls inside your scrotum) and locate the tubes (vas deferens). Starting with one testicle, the urologist removes a tube, cuts a chunk out of it, closes the cut ends, puts the now-two tubes back into the testicle and stitches it shut. After that, the doctor turns to the other testicle and repeats the process. The entire procedure takes 10-30 minutes and you are free to go home. While you remain awake throughout the procedure, a local anesthetic applied to your scrotum makes sure you are numb down there. So you can engage in a chat with your doctor as the procedure goes on.

Does it hurt?

Yes, but not as much as you imagine. Initially, pain occurs when the anesthetic is applied. As the anesthetic is applied, you will feel as if someone is whacking your balls with a rubber band many times, resulting in deep, nauseating discomfort. But after that, everything down there becomes numb, though you may still feel the tugging, pulling and pressure during the procedure.

Can it go wrong down there?

Like any surgical procedure, a vasectomy comes with risks, such as infection and hematoma (bleeding in your balls). But overall, it is a safe and effective procedure. Your doctor will discuss with you all the risks of the procedure before you agree to it. And you will sign a waiver document for risks such as impotence, heart attack, bleed out, stroke and death. If you are worried that a vasectomy will trigger prostate cancer, this is the time to chat about it with your urologist. Of course studies have shown that there is no link between prostate cancer and vasectomy.

What about anxiety?

Anxiety can be a terrible part of a vasectomy. But many urologists prescribe medications to relieve anxiety, commonly a single Xanax prescription. If your doctor gives you this, don’t hesitate to take it. It will help you drift away mentally and relax, ensuring you are free from anxiety during the procedure. My urologist did not give me any such medication and I must confess that anxiety was the worst part of my experience.

What of post-op pain?

For a few days after the procedure, you have a dull, generalized soreness down there, accompanied by some low-grade stomachaches. With prescribed pain medication, you feel okay. I took Tylenol regularly plus rest and a couple of beers and felt fine. But the most serious post-op pain occurs when you catch one of the stitches with your underwear. It really hurts. I fell down like a potato sack, and believe you will too. Make sure you don’t catch one of these stitches.

How long will it take for you to recover 100 percent?

It’s different for each person. The doctor will tell you something like 10-14 days, but it may be longer or shorter for you. You definitely should keep off your feet for the first 24-48 hours and keep yourself on ice. You can start to shower after 48 hours, but that won’t be fun. I was able to walk around with slight problems after a couple of days, and started running again after a week with little soreness. I was able to resume my normal activities by day three, but that was because I felt pain-free and was quite bored after two days. Monitor your body well for pain and other complications before you get back to normal activities.

When can you begin to have sex?

The invasive stitches on your balls will remain tender and physically strange for a couple of days. This will make you quite anxious and less prepared for sex. My doctor said, “Go for sex when you are ready.” For me that was around 10 days after the procedure. Your case could be different. So don’t worry too much about it because you will get back to your old self pretty quickly once you and your spouse begin to ignite the flames of passion in the bedroom.

Where can you undergo the procedure?

Depends on which city you live in. But you should go for a doctor with years of experience performing the procedure. A place offering no-scalpel, open-ended vasectomy is great. Mine was done at St Pete Urology and it was great. The urologist was frank and friendly, and we explored a lot of questions before the procedure. Want more information on safe vasectomy? Visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

Is It Ok to Work Out After Getting A Vasectomy?

So you are thinking of having a vasectomy? And you fear it could disrupt your imminent project, work plan, business venture or regular workout routine? You really enjoy what you do and you can’t stand several days away from it. Your fears may be justified considering how long it often takes to recover from various medical procedures. But when it comes to a vasectomy, you really don’t need to worry. A vasectomy will keep you out for a far shorter time than you imagine. And in no time you will be back doing what you like.

Scalpel-Free Open Ended Vasectomy

Previously, vasectomy involved an incision in the scrotum using a scalpel, followed by blocking both ends of the tubes (vas deferens) with a clip, suture or diathermy. This closed-ended technique required stitching of the incision, which increased the risk of infection and complications, like congestive epididymitis (tenderness due to pressure build-up). However, things have since changed and the no-scalpel, open-ended procedure is now the norm. This technique only requires a tiny puncture in your skin using special forceps, followed by closing the upper part of your vas with a suture while leaving open the end of the tube connected to the testicle. In only 15-20 minutes, the procedure is done and you are out to begin your recovery.

Less Strenuous Activities

If all goes well, you can be back to your desk job soon after the procedure. But for a fitness routine or a more physically demanding job, you may require a few days off to recover before returning. Typically, the number of days you need depends on the type of activity you intend to undertake. For instance, you should not engage in activities requiring standing and walking all day or carrying loads greater than 10-15 kg until after one week. Likewise, for non-contact sports such as swimming, golf and tennis, you need 2 weeks before you can return. For cycling, you should take 2 weeks off before engaging in stationary cycling, at least 3 weeks before getting back to road cycling, and at least 4 weeks before you can engage in mountain biking.

More Strenuous Activities

Before you can engage in more strenuous activities, you need more time off to recover. For instance, contact sports such as soccer, rugby, martial arts, hockey or powerlifting will require at least a month off. If you fall in the powerlifting category, you may be tempted to use these four weeks off to build your one-rep max, but you must resist such temptations. In fact, you must avoid all sorts of heavy weights that come with low repetition sets, such as squats, leg press and heavy deadlifts. Such exercises can cause a massive build-up of internal pressure, which may lead to internal bleeding at the operation site and potentially result in a scrotal hematoma. A scrotal hematoma is a nasty lump that can be as big as a grapefruit in your scrotum and may take up to 2 months to resolve.

Sexual Intercourse

You can resume normal sexual intercourse one week after a vasectomy. But you should use contraception such as condoms for at least 3 months and until after your semen has been double-checked and found to be completely sperm-free. Ever heard of pregnancies after a vasectomy? Sex within 3 months after a vasectomy may still result in pregnancy because your semen may still contain sperm. So use contraceptives until your doctor confirms that your semen is sperm-free.

Work With Your Urologist

To prevent any problems and reduce the time you need to be off before resuming normal work, follow post-care instructions strictly and pay attention to your doctor’s guidance. By using a cold pack during the first 3-4 days after the procedure and avoiding strenuous activities until your body has healed properly, you will prevent potential complications (such wound reopening, pressure build-up and infection) and speed up your recovery. Fortunately, the most likely issue after a vasectomy is often just a mild ache that goes away in a few days and can be contained with Paracetamol.The other complications, such as hematoma, infection and sperm granuloma (a pea-sized lump on the cut end of your vas deferens) are quite rare.

At St Pete Urology, we offer the painless, no-scalpel open-ended vasectomy procedure. And we guarantee that you recover swiftly and get back to your most cherished activities very quickly. Have questions still? Find out more about safe, painless vasectomy by visiting the “St Pete Urology” site.

What foods to avoid with kidney stones?

When substances found in urine become so concentrated, they can combine to form solid masses called kidney stones. For instance, calcium in urine can combine with phosphorous or oxalate to form calcium phosphate and calcium oxalate crystals respectively. Likewise, the buildup of uric acid in urine following protein metabolism can lead to uric acid crystals. Since the urinary tract is not functionally adapted to expel solid matter, the stones become very painful to pass. Fortunately, the risk of formation of kidney stones can be reduced through dietary measures.

So what should you eat and drink to avoid getting these painful stones?

1. Drink copious amounts of water
Taking large quantities of fluid, particularly water, can significantly reduce the risk of kidney stones. Water dilutes urine and lowers its concentration, minimizing the possibility of the chemicals combining to form stones. Just make sure to drink 12 glasses or more of water every day.

2. Eat more calcium-rich foods
Calcium combines with oxalate and eliminates it. Therefore, low calcium intake allows your oxalate levels to rise while increased intake reduces the quantity of oxalate in urine. It is advisable that you get calcium from food and not from supplements (as supplements increase the risk of kidney stones). Recommended sources of calcium include cottage cheese, other types of cheeses, yogurt, milk (cow’s milk, goat’s milk, fortified soy milk and lactose-free milk), legumes, dark green vegetables, calcium-set tofu, seeds, blackstrap molasses and nuts. Intake of foods rich in vitamin D every day can ensure that the body absorbs more calcium. There are several foods fortified with vitamin D, but you also can get this vitamin from egg yolks, cheese and salmon.

3. Increase your citrus intake
Citrus provides naturally occurring citrate which is effective in stopping or reducing the formation of kidney stones. You can get citrate from citrus fruit, citrus juice, oranges, grapefruit and lemons.

Which types of food should you avoid?

1. Limit your salt intake
Increased sodium levels promote the buildup of calcium in urine. Hence, it is important to avoid adding too much salt to your food and to check all labels on processed foods to control the amount of sodium you take. Whenever possible, instruct that no salt be added in the foods you order in hotels or restaurants. Vegetable juices may contain high quantities of sodium, so check what you drink.

2. Reduce intake of animal protein
Most animal sources of protein increase the level of uric acid and reduce the level of citrate in urine. Citrate is important in preventing stone formation. Therefore, you should avoid eating large quantities of red meat, poultry, chicken, pork, eggs and fish which contain large quantities of citrate. Instead of animal proteins, you should turn to alternatives such as Greek yogurt, quinoa, hummus, tofu (bean curd) and chia seeds. Make sure to discuss what types of protein you should eat with your doctor.

3. Minimize the quantity of oxalate-rich foods
Oxalate-rich foods can increase the development of kidney stones. So if you are at greater risk or already have had stones before, then you should either eliminate or reduce the quantity of oxalates. But if you have to eat oxalate-rich foods, always follow or combine them with a calcium source to ensure the oxalate is bound to calcium during digestion and prevented from reaching the kidneys. Foods with high quantities of oxalate include beets, chocolate, nuts, tea, spinach, swiss chard, sweet potatoes and rhubarb. Speak with your doctor to determine the limits of oxalate-rich foods you should have in your diet.

4. Cut down sugar intake
High levels of added fructose and sucrose can increase the risk of stones. You should reduce or eliminate the amount of added sugar you take, particularly in processed foods, cakes, fruits, soft drinks, juices, agave nectar, honey, cane sugar, crystallized fructose, corn syrup and brown rice syrup.

5. Avoid cola drinks
Cola contains high quantities of phosphate, a chemical that promotes kidney stone formation. Avoiding colas will therefore reduce your risk of kidney stones.

Dietary tips for avoiding kidney stones

Once you have kidney stones for the first time, the risk of a recurrence increases drastically unless you take the necessary steps to prevent them. For instance, you can take medications prescribed by your doctor to prevent the stones. Likewise, you can begin to watch keenly what you drink and eat. It is also important that tests are run on the stones you currently have to determine what type they are in order to clearly define appropriate steps for preventing a recurrence. Strategies for preventing recurrence of kidney stones include:

  1. Drinking at least 12 glasses of water every day.
  2. Drinking citrus juices, like orange juice.
  3. Reducing the amount of animal protein you take.
  4. Reducing the amount of added sugar, salt and products rich in fructose corn syrup.
  5. Avoiding drinks and foods high in phosphates and oxalates.
  6. Eating a calcium-containing food at every meal, at least 3 times a day.
  7. Avoiding foods or drinks that dehydrate the body, such as alcohol.

Kidney stones can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. But with slight dietary changes, occurrence of the stones can be effectively prevented or managed. Keeping your body hydrated, pairing oxalate-rich foods with calcium and avoiding foods high in sugar and salt are crucial dietary steps for preventing kidney stones.

At St Pete Urology, we apply a range of treatments, such as lifestyle, dietary, medical and surgical interventions to ensure the best outcome possible for our patients. At our center, most patients with kidney stones are seen by specialists, taken through 24-hour urine studies and blood tests, and given the right treatment depending on the type and cause of their stones. Our urologists are experts in shock-wave lithotripsy (SWL), ureteroscopy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy, among other treatments for relieving pain and restoring a normal, pain-free life. We also develop preventive plans for our patients, giving them a clearer picture of why the stones develop and the necessary changes they should make to prevent them, including dietary, lifestyle and medications to take. For more information on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and follow-up care for kidney stones, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.