Patient Resources
Everything You Need Before Your Visit
Answers to common questions, a quick prep guide, and a plain-language glossary of urologic terms — so you can walk into your appointment feeling informed and ready.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
Before your appointment, take a few minutes to gather any recent lab results (PSA, urinalysis, metabolic panel), imaging reports (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI), and a current list of your medications and supplements. If you've seen another urologist or specialist, having those notes handy is helpful but not required. You'll also complete a brief intake form after booking — this gives your doctor a head start so your visit time is spent on answers, not paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Urologic Terms, Explained
Medical language shouldn't be a barrier to understanding your own health. Here are plain-language definitions for terms you may encounter.
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen)
- A protein produced by the prostate gland, measured through a blood test. Elevated PSA levels can indicate benign prostate enlargement, inflammation, or — in some cases — prostate cancer. PSA alone does not diagnose cancer; it is one piece of a larger clinical picture.
- BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
- A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs as men age. BPH can cause urinary symptoms such as a weak stream, frequent urination, or difficulty emptying the bladder. It is very common and highly treatable.
- Hematuria
- Blood in the urine. Gross hematuria is visible to the naked eye; microscopic hematuria is detected only on a urine test. Both warrant urologic evaluation to identify the underlying cause, which can range from benign to serious.
- Urolithiasis (Kidney Stones)
- The formation of hard mineral deposits in the kidneys or urinary tract. Stones can cause severe pain, blood in the urine, and urinary obstruction. Treatment depends on stone size, location, and composition.
- OAB (Overactive Bladder)
- A condition characterized by a sudden, strong urge to urinate that is difficult to control, often accompanied by frequent urination and sometimes leakage. OAB is caused by involuntary bladder muscle contractions and is very treatable.
- Gleason Score
- A grading system used to describe the aggressiveness of prostate cancer based on biopsy tissue. Scores range from 6 to 10; higher scores indicate more aggressive cancer. Your urologist can explain what your specific score means for your prognosis and treatment options.
- Hydronephrosis
- Swelling of one or both kidneys due to a buildup of urine, often caused by a blockage in the urinary tract (such as a kidney stone or narrowing). It can be detected on ultrasound or CT imaging.
- Testosterone Deficiency (Hypogonadism)
- A condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. Symptoms can include fatigue, low libido, mood changes, and decreased muscle mass. Diagnosis requires a blood test, and treatment options include lifestyle changes and testosterone replacement therapy.
Still Have Questions?
The best way to get answers is to talk directly with a board-certified urologist. Same-week appointments available.