Photo by: Lori C.

Sometimes men are reluctant to consult a specialist, even when they are suffering from discomfort or facing serious symptoms. However, even mild symptoms can sometimes be an indicator of cancer. The following warning signs need to be addressed by a urologist immediately to rule out the possibility of cancer.

Issues with male fertility

Infertility can be a combination of many factors, including cancer. A small number of male fertility issues can be related to testicular cancer, so it’s worth asking your doctor if this is an issue for you.

Blood in the urine

The appearance of blood in your urine can be a warning flag of bladder or kidney cancer. It’s also worth noting that not all blood in the urine is visible – sometimes it can only be detected through tests.

Changes in Prostate Specific Antigen numbers

These numbers are the most accurate indicators of prostate cancer. A rise in these numbers warrant a closer evaluation by a urologist specially trained in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer.

Abnormal prostate exam

It’s highly recommended that all men over the age of 40 to 45 obtain a yearly prostate exam. Again, abnormal results, such as masses, need to be evaluated by a urologist for early intervention if required.

X-rays that reveal masses on the kidneys

The possibility of kidney cancer may be suggested by masses on the kidneys, but a urologist is the best doctor to handle the diagnosis and treatment of this disease of the urological system.

Pain or a mass in the testicles

Early intervention for testicular cancer is key in fighting this very curable form of cancer. Don’t fool yourself into thinking the pain will just go away – it could lead to much worse problems down the road.

Contact Dr. Michael S Kaplan, respected urologist and erectile dysfunction doctor, today at (702) 454-6226 for a consultation or appointment if you are experiencing one of these serious symptoms.

What’s on your mind?

Many men are often reluctant to talk to their urologist, but chances are, if you have a question or concern, there are probably hundreds of other with the same question on their mind. Here’s a look at some of the most common questions urologists get.

Question #1:
I’ve been having bladder control problems. Is there anything a urologist can do to help with this problem?

Urinary incontinence, or the inability to control the flow of urine or involuntary urination, can affect men and women at any stage of life. The best way to determine the exact causes of incontinence involve a consult with a competent urologist. There are many treatment options for bladder control problems including exercises, behavioral modification, medications and surgery.

Question #2:
Sex has become painful. Could this be a result of a urinary problem?

Discomfort or pain during or following sexual intercourse is more common among women that men, but it can be an indicator of infection or may occur as a result of scar tissue. Urinary tract stones may also contribute to discomfort during sex. Painful erections can be a warning sign of the serious disorder Peyronie’s Disease. These symptoms can be serious, so contact your urologist right away to avoid permanent damage.

Question #3:
I have issues with premature ejaculation. Is there any help for this condition?

It’s been estimated that up to 70 percent of men struggle with this issue at some point in their lives. Treatments may include the use of condoms or creams to reduce sensation, or exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

Remember, the only stupid questions are unasked ones, and your urologist has most likely heard it all before. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to contact your urologist.

Erectile dysfunction could be warning you of something more serious.

Recent research has connected erectile dysfunction with heart disease in men. Experiencing erectile dysfunction can be the first sign that risk factors for heart disease exist. According to a 2010 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association, men with erectile dysfunction were 1.6 times more likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke.

Arteries in the penis are significantly smaller than those that supply blood to the heart, brain, and lower extremities. Therefore, the arteries in the penis get blocked more quickly than they do in other parts of the body. This why ED can be a precursor to heart disease years before a heart attack occurs.

The penis is also more sensitive than other organs in the body. As a result, it will be more sensitive to symptoms such as inflammation and oxidative stress associated with heart disease.

Given the link between these two conditions, men experiencing any symptoms should see an erectile dysfunction doctor right away; it could prevent a life threatening condition in the future.

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For some men, virility and ability to be fruitful are key component in feeling masculine. There are several foods that will boost the quality of a man’s sperm. This means that a man’s diet can provide a considerable change in not only the density of sperm, but also the mobility.

1. Foods rich in Vitamin A are essential for improving male virility. This includes foods like carrots, red peppers and dried apricots. Oatmeal, dark green lettuce, broccoli and dairy may also include a healthy dose of the vitamin.

2. Men should be taking in a high dosage of Vitamin C. Vitamin C influences sperm movement and speed. These foods include sweet potatoes, yellow vegetables and fruits.

3. Zinc can boost testosterone levels and increase sperm production. Men can find high quantities of zinc in turkey meat, beef, eggs, yogurt, corn, seafood and oatmeal.

4. While folic acid is often seen as something only women need, men can benefit as well. Folic acid helps to create strong, healthy sperm. You can find folic acid in avocados, beans and whole grain foods.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, sardines and walnuts can increase a man’s sexual functioning. These acids improve the flow of blood to the penis and lowers cholesterol. Overall, it is just a healthy supplement for your body.

6. This one works for both men and women. Certain foods are considered aphrodisiacs that can boost the libido. Oysters are well-known aphrodisiacs as a result of the amino acids they contain. Chocolate is another aphrodisiac. Some people choose to use maca plant extract to give themselves a boost, while others might incorporate more bananas into their diets.

7. Asparagus is a great food for men to eat because it helps to rid your body of harmful substances. Asparagus contains Vitamin C and works as an oxidative.

For more information on urology and men’s health issues, contact Dr. Michael S. Kaplan at (702) 454-6226.

Nobody likes bad breath, but it turns out that not brushing your teeth can cost you more than your date – a recent study found that gum disease may actually be linked with erectile dysfunction. The study took place in Taiwan over the course of five years, and researchers found that men with erectile dysfunction had a higher incidence of severe gum disease.

Although it is not quite understood what exactly the relationship is between gum disease and erectile dysfunction, researchers say that even after accounting for things like income and quality of life, the presence of gum disease was still much higher in men who had erectile dysfunction. There were two specific age brackets that seemed to be most affected by this – men under 30 and men over 70.

I’m smiling because I’m happy to see you.

Researchers are still trying to piece together why this link exists. One theory is that gum disease causes inflammation, which in turn can damage blood vessels that would travel to the penis. In the meantime, gum disease is very easily prevented by simply brushing and flossing regularly, with the occasional checkup. If you are interested in more information about erectile dysfunction, speak with an ED doctor in Las Vegas like Dr. Michael S. Kaplan.