Signs of Urinary Tract Issues (And When to See a Urologist)

| Patient Education

Urology symptoms can surface in a variety of ways, pointing to different conditions. They can come on quickly or unexpectedly, but should never be ignored. 

Schneck Urology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of bladder issues for men and women, supporting urinary health at every stage of life. In this blog, we will give you the breakdown on understanding your urinary system, which symptoms of urological conditions to look out for, and when you should see a urologist. 

Common Urinary Tract Symptoms and What They May Indicate

There are signs in your urinary tract system to watch for. Explore this list of common urinary tract symptoms and what conditions cause them.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list; it includes symptoms only exhibited by your urinary tract system. If you are experiencing problems with your bladder or reproductive organs, or issues not featured on this list, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Common Urinary Tract Conditions

Associated Urinary Symptoms

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
  • Urgency to pee
  • Pain when peeing
  • Pelvic pain
  • Blood in urine
  • Strong-smelling urine
  • Consistent need to pee
Bladder or Kidney Stones
  • Intense, sharp pain on back or side
  • Pain when peeing
  • Bloodied/Discolored urine
  • Urine that smells bad
  • Frequent peeing
  • Weak stream while peeing
Kidney or Bladder Cancer 
  • Pain when peeing
  • Blood in urine
  • Frequent peeing
  • Consistent pain on back or side
Overactive Bladder
  • Sudden urgency to pee
  • Urinating involuntarily
  • Noturia (getting up to pee more than once during the night)
  • Incontinence
Prostate Issues
  • Weak stream while peeing
  • Blood in urine
  • Blood in semen
  • Frequent peeing
  • Nocturia
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Incontinence
STIs/STDs
  • Discomfort in or around the genitals
  • Burning on or around the genitals
  • Unusual urinary discharge
Bladder Dysfunction
  • Not feeling "empty" after you finish urinating

Differences Between Temporary Concerns vs. Ongoing Bladder Issues

What's the difference between a temporary bladder issue and a serious condition? Well, as the names suggest, one is only temporary, and the other can be a long-term issue. Knowing what's causing these concerns will help your doctor determine if they are temporary or ongoing. It's important to understand that most urinary tract symptoms can be found in both temporary and ongoing conditions. So, if you notice any signs, go to the doctor regardless. 

Temporary bladder concerns don't last long and are not a condition in and of themselves; they are typically a symptom of another condition or lifestyle choice. Temporary bladder issues, such as overactive bladder and incontinence, may be caused by prescription medication, alcohol or caffeine consumption, or pregnancy. A lot of these urinary tract symptoms can be alleviated with lifestyle changes - talk with your doctor about managing your specific situation. 

Ongoing bladder issues are a sign of something wrong in the urinary tract system. While an overactive bladder or incontinence can be a temporary concern, they can also point to serious conditions like diabetes, kidney stones, or a UTI. 

When to See a Urologist

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed in this blog or have a family history of one or more of these conditions, go to a urologist. For any urinary tract concerns, a urologist can provide a diagnosis and develop a possible treatment plan. 

To give a formal diagnosis and understand what is causing your bladder issues, your urologist will most likely have you undergo a series of urine tests, imaging, and bladder tests, along with a physical exam. In doing so, they can determine whether your symptoms are temporary or ongoing and require formal treatment. 

How Early Urinary Health Evaluation Can Prevent Complications

Seeing a urologist at the onset of symptoms makes treatment simpler and, in some cases, quicker. If you put off seeing a urinary tract specialist, you could be putting yourself at higher risk for greater problems, poorer response to treatment, or life-threatening health conditions. 

Getting treatment early for any bladder issue gives you a better chance at making a full recovery. The treatments can be less invasive and time-consuming. Addressing a urinary health concern right away, especially if it's something like prostate cancer, gives the condition less time to strengthen and become worse, meaning treatment can be easier and more successful.

Address Your Urology Symptoms with Schneck

The providers at Schneck Urology offer specialized expertise for urology conditions. Our knowledge, coupled with state-of-the-art technology, allows us to practice urology with the utmost care and precision. Facing concerns with your urine? Wondering if you should see a urologist? Visit our page and explore what Schneck Urology can do for you.

Learn More About Urology
Dr. Charity H. Welch

About the Author

Charity H. Welch FNP-C

Charity Welch is a nurse practitioner with Schneck Urology.