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Common Urological Problems in the Elderly - A Doctor’s Talk

By Prof. Dr. P. Periasamy

HOD & Senior Consultant – Urologist & Renal Transplant Surgeon
MS (Gen Surgery), MCH (Urology), DNB (Urology)
󰞯 “Vanakkam. I’m Dr. P. Periasamy, Senior Consultant Urologist and Renal Transplant
Surgeon at Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, Chennai. In my 26 years of practice, I’ve
treated thousands of patients with urinary and kidney problems. Many assume these issues
are just part of ageing and choose to live with them. But the truth is – most urological
conditions are treatable, and getting medical help early can improve comfort and quality of
life. Let me walk you through the most common urological problems I see, and what you can
do about them.”

Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia–BPH)

If you’re a man over 50 and often wake up at night to urinate, notice a weak urine stream, or
Sometimes, blood in urine may also appear.
Diagnosis is simple with urine tests, blood tests, or ultrasound.
Treatments range from safe medications that relax the prostate to minimally invasive
procedures like TURP surgery.
👉 Don’t ignore prostate problems – early care can prevent bigger complications.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections are common, especially in people with diabetes. Symptoms include:

- Burning sensation while passing urine
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy urine or foul smell
- Fever or blood in urine

💊 The good news is – UTIs can be treated effectively with the right antibiotics and proper hydration. But avoid self-medication with random antibiotics. Always consult a urologist in Chennai for timely care.

Kidney & Urinary Stones

One in ten people will experience kidney stones in their lifetime. The pain can be sudden,
sharp, and unbearable – often starting in the back or side and radiating downwards. Other
symptoms: nausea, vomiting, fever with chills, and blood in urine.
🔹 At Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, we use advanced treatments like URSL, RIRS,
and PCNL to remove stones safely, without large cuts.
🔹 Early treatment prevents kidney damage and brings fast relief.

Urinary Incontinence (Leakage of Urine)

Many feel embarrassed to talk about urine leakage, but it’s a very common urology
problem, especially among elderly women.
Types include:
Stress Incontinence: leakage while coughing, sneezing, or lifting.
Urge Incontinence: sudden urge followed by leakage.
Overflow Incontinence: continuous dribbling due to incomplete emptying.
💡 Treatments: bladder training, medicines, and surgical procedures like sling surgery.
Remember – it’s a medical condition, not something to be ashamed of.

Bladder & Urinary Tract Cancers

🚨 Blood in urine should never be ignored. Even if it is painless, it may signal bladder or
urinary tract cancer.
🔸 Smoking is the biggest risk factor, but even non-smokers can develop cancer.
🔸 Symptoms: frequent urination, burning sensation, flank pain.
🔸 Diagnosis: cystoscopy with biopsy.
🔸 Treatment: depends on stage – surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.
Early detection is lifesaving.

Blood in Urine (Hematuria)

Even a single episode of hematuria (blood in urine) needs immediate medical consultation.
Causes may include infections, stones, enlarged prostate, or cancer. Please don’t wait for it
to “go away on its own.”

Tips for a Healthy Urinary System

As your urologist, here’s my advice:
● Drink enough water daily
● Avoid smoking and unnecessary painkillers
● Keep diabetes & blood pressure under control
● Limit excess salt & protein; eat more citrus fruits
● Never delay consulting a doctor if you notice urinary symptoms
󰞯 “Remember – age may bring health challenges, but you don’t need to suffer silently.
Urological problems are common, but they are treatable. With today’s advanced care, we
can restore comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Don’t wait – seek help early.”
📍Consult the Best Urologist in Chennai
Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital
📞 For Appointments: 9551 900 900
💬 WhatsApp: +91 90948 68000
OMR Road, Kelambakkam – 603103
Call us Now