Inland Empire patients who are experiencing trouble with their urinary tract — such as experiencing painful or frequent urination — might be seeking answers as to what is going on. It’s important that Rancho Mirage patients visit a urology expert in order to be diagnosed.
A urologist will likely take the time to listen to your symptoms as well as perform a series of tests in order to figure out the cause of your problem. In many cases, urodynamic testing may be required.
What is Urodynamic Testing?
Urodynamic testing is defined as tests and procedures that are performed by qualified urologists in which the functionality or performance of the urinary tract is evaluated. The most common urodynamic tests are designed in order to see how well the bladder is functioning in terms of holding urine and completely emptying itself.
If a patient is experiencing urine leakage, problems beginning to urinate, strong urges to urinate with increasing frequency, painful urination, frequent urinary tract infections or difficulty emptying the bladder, urodynamic testing may be the best way to provide the patient with a solution.
What Different Urodynamic Tests are Available?
There are a variety of different urodynamic tests that are used today in order to provide patients with the treatment that they need. Common types of urodynamic testing include the cystometric test, the uroflowmetry test, the pressure flow study, electromyography, video urodynamic test, postvoid residual measurement and the leak point pressure measurement test. Each test is designed to evaluate different functions of the urinary tract, allowing the urologist to come up with a specific diagnosis and treatment plan for the patient.
What Does the Patient Experience After the Testing is Complete?
Given the nature of urodynamic testing, many patients feel slight discomfort after the fact. This can be heightened when the patient tries to urinate, so many urologists recommend drinking a large glass of water every half an hour for at least two hours after the testing is complete. In some cases, the patient may be prescribed an antibiotic in order to help prevent an infection from forming after the testing.
When Will Results from the Urodynamic Tests be Available?
The timing of the results depends on the test itself. With some tests, such as the cystometry, results are available for the patient immediately following the procedure. Other tests, such as the electromyography test, can take several days before results are available for the patient. The urologist will provide each patient with a timeline for when they can expect to receive their results.
Patients should understand how important their urinary tract is to their general health. The urinary tract is designed to remove excess waste and excess water from the body.
If a patient feels that they are having the usual symptoms or issues with their urinary tract, it’s important to be seen by a urologist as soon as possible. The urologist can perform the proper tests and provide you with a diagnosis. From there, a treatment plan can be created specifically for you.
