PATIENT CHOICE WIDENS

  • Greater Lancashire Hospital listed for first time on major NHS ‘Choose and Book’ platform
  • Patients to see leading consultants at first appointment to deliver shorter healthcare journeys
  • GPs and patients can now opt for “a “local hospital run for local people by local people” 

Patients across the North West can now receive treatment from some of the UK’s leading consultants at the earliest opportunity as a direct result of Greater Lancashire Hospital being selected for the NHS ‘Choose and Book’ portal for the first time.

The Preston-based hospital’s extensive range of services have been fully registered on the online booking platform enabling patients and their GPs to choose the best specialist and most convenient time for their requirements. 

Greater Lancashire Hospital is unique in that patients will be seen by some of the UK’s top consultants and clinicians at their first appointment, meaning a quicker diagnosis and a shortening of their healthcare journey.

Services currently include neurology, neurophysiology, cardiology, women’s health, urology, dermatology, radiology and vascular medicine. Other areas of out-patient expertise include ear, nose and throat (ENT), plastic and cosmetic surgery, pain management, eye surgery as well as respiratory medicine.

Based in Ribbleton’s Millennium City Park, Greater Lancashire Hospital remains the only hospital in the area to be classed “outstanding” for patient care by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

“We’ve always been committed to driving down patient waiting times by providing seamless healthcare pathways while ensuring the highest standards of care delivered in thoroughly modern surroundings.”

“Our registration with the Choose and Book platform allows us to take this to the next level for even more people here in Lancashire and the North West by ensuring they can see one of the UK’s best consultants as quickly and conveniently as possible.”

Choose and Book, which is also known as the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS) Manage Your Referral system, was established in 2005 to provide patients with greater control over their healthcare. 

It allows patients to check, cancel or change their bookings online while simultaneously streamlining the whole referral process.

Gwam continued: “With all our services now live for patients across the North West through the Choose and Book portal, the decision couldn’t be simpler.

MRI Scanning services Now Live

Bespoke Healthcare and Tesla Radiology Solutions Ltd would like to announce the joint project

Bespoke Healthcare and Tesla Radiology Solutions Ltd would like to announce the joint project in diagnostic radiology scanning services starting with state of the art 1.5 Tesla MRI scanning services to the Preston area via self–pay referrals, insured and the NHS choose and book facility.

We are one of the independent specialist providers for MRI scans. 

Our mission is to provide a patient centric, high quality private and NHS diagnostic service at a very affordable price and accessible to everybody. 

We provide specialist MRI scanning services seven days a week, supported by our friendly and knowledgeable patient care team, who will support you every step of your healthcare journey with us. 

Work commences on new £1.5m annex to Greater Lancashire Hospital

Work officially begins on purpose-built annex to Greater Lancashire Hospital

  • Work officially begins on purpose-built annex to Greater Lancashire Hospital
  • Phase one will create a new state-of-the-art ultrasound suite and consulting rooms 
  • “A Lancashire Hospital operated by local people for local people” 

Greater Lancashire Hospital has commenced building work on a £1.5m annex located at the side of its current premises in Preston.

The building will welcome NHS patients from across Lancashire and the North West when it opens in Ribbleton’s Millennium City Park this autumn.

Fit-out work has now commenced on phase one which includes a state-of-the-art ultrasound suite, dedicated physiotherapy and gym areas, seven consulting rooms as well as a reception to the clinical suite.

The original Greater Lancashire Hospital has been transforming the health of locally-based residents since it was founded by Preston-headquartered entrepreneurs Sara and Gwam Rajiah in 2014.

Working closely with some of the UK’s best-known consultants and medical practitioners, the hospital supports regional NHS trusts and private healthcare patients.

Gwam Rajiah, executive chairman of Greater Lancashire Hospital, said: “This new annex will ensure that the best medical care is available for even more Lancashire and North West people.

“But it’s also a really exciting development in the evolution of Greater Lancashire Hospital as we seek to cater for a constantly increasing appetite for our services.”

Mr Rajiah expects the new 10,000 sq ft annex – which occupies the former Synetics building – will create at least 50 new clinical roles and an additional 20 clerical roles upon completion.

Complete with 30 free car parking spaces accessible via a soon-to-be created entrance on Longridge Road, the annex will operate in unison with Greater Lancashire Hospital’s original, neighbouring site.

Among the Preston-based contractors currently working on the first phase of the annex are Wyder Construction and air conditioning specialists DD Cooling.

The building work is being overseen by Greater Lancashire Hospital’s director of investment and development, Myles Rajiah, who said: “We’re already well ahead of schedule and that’s testament to the skill, professionalism and expertise of Wyder Construction’s team.

“At any time, there are more than 50 different contractors on site – all of whom are from Preston and the surrounding area.

“The state-of-the-art air filtration and extraction system, which is also fully compliant with the strictest NHS guidelines, is the most recent component to be installed.”

Greater Lancashire Hospital, which is part of Preston-headquartered Bespoke Healthcare Group, is the only hospital in the area that has currently received ‘outstanding’ for patient care by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The hospital is an approved supplier to the NHS which allows trusts to refer patients directly to its facilities for a wide range of NHS services ensuring that patients can be seen by medical professionals within a suitable timeframe.

Opening of General Anaesthetic Theatre

Opening of General Anaesthetic Theatre

As part of our continued development, we are delighted to announce that we have now completed phase 2 of our project plan to be able to further enhance our General Anaesthetic theatre at Greater Lancashire Hospital.

To be able to transform our hospital to this level will enable us to significantly improve and enhance the patient care and service to our partners in the local community.

Our family run hospital is committed to continuing to be a leading independent provider in the region with our ethos and core values at the heart of everything we do! 

Gwam

Managing Director

Relieving the Burden of Migraines

Relieving the Burden of Migraines: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
 

What are migraines?

Migraines are more than just headaches. They are complex neurological conditions that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. In this comprehensive blog post, we aim to shed light on migraines, offering valuable information on their diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive measures. By understanding the causes, triggers, and available management strategies, individuals can find relief from the burden of migraines and regain control over their lives.

Understanding Migraines:

Migraines are characterized by recurring moderate to severe headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and in some cases, visual disturbances. While the exact cause of migraines remains elusive, various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, environmental triggers, and underlying neurological abnormalities, may contribute to their onset.

Diagnosis and Identifying Triggers:

Accurate diagnosis plays a crucial role in managing migraines effectively. We discuss the importance of seeking medical evaluation to rule out other potential causes and determine if migraines are the underlying issue. Additionally, we explore common triggers such as certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, environmental factors, and sleep disturbances. Recognising personal triggers can help individuals take proactive steps towards preventing migraine episodes.

Treatment Options:

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to migraine treatment. We provide an overview of both acute and preventive measures that individuals can consider based on their specific needs and severity of migraines. Acute treatment options include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and lifestyle modifications, while preventive measures may involve prescription medications, dietary changes, stress management techniques, and regular exercise.

Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care:

In addition to medical interventions, we emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications in managing migraines. From maintaining a regular sleep schedule and managing stress levels to implementing relaxation techniques and practicing healthy dietary habits, small but impactful changes can make a significant difference in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines.

Personalised Care and Seeking Professional Advice:

Every individual’s experience with migraines is unique, necessitating a personalised approach to treatment. We encourage readers to consult with healthcare professionals specialising in migraine management for accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and ongoing support. Medical professionals can help identify suitable treatment options, monitor progress, and adjust the management approach as needed.

Empowering Individuals and Enhancing Well-being:

Living with migraines can be challenging, but it’s important for individuals to remember that they are not alone. By understanding the nature of migraines, identifying triggers, and seeking appropriate medical care, individuals can take control of their condition and find relief from the burden of migraines. We provide encouragement, support, and resources to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives despite living with migraines.

Getting Help 

If you are concerned, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation with our kind and discreet experts. You can call us on 01772 663977, email the team on info@greaterlancashirehospital or send us a secure message on our website. 

Correcting Droopy Eyelids

Correcting Droopy Eyelids: Understanding Ptosis and Treatment Options
 

What is Ptosis?

Ptosis, commonly known as droopy eyelids, is a condition that can affect individuals of all ages, causing their eyelids to sag or droop lower than normal. This condition not only affects the appearance but can also impact vision and self-confidence. In this informative blog post, we delve into the details of ptosis, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

Causes of Ptosis:

Ptosis can result from various factors, including age-related weakening of the eyelid muscles, congenital or birth-related issues, muscle or nerve damage, eye trauma, or certain medical conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial in determining the most suitable treatment approach.

Symptoms of Ptosis:

The primary symptom of ptosis is the drooping of one or both eyelids, which can vary in severity. Individuals with ptosis may experience obstructed vision, eye fatigue, eyebrow strain from constantly lifting the eyelids, and a tired or sad appearance. Recognising these symptoms can prompt individuals to seek appropriate evaluation and treatment.

Treatment Options:

Fortunately, several treatment options are available for correcting ptosis and restoring a more youthful and alert appearance to the eyes. The appropriate treatment method depends on the severity of ptosis and its underlying cause. Here are some common treatment options:

Ptosis Correction Surgery:

This surgical procedure involves tightening or repositioning the weakened eyelid muscles to raise the eyelids to their desired position. It can improve both the cosmetic appearance and functionality of the eyes, relieving any vision-related issues caused by droopy eyelids.

Non-Surgical Approaches:

In some cases, non-surgical interventions such as specialised eyelid exercises, the use of eye drops or ointments, or the application of eyelid tapes or prosthetic devices may be recommended. These approaches can provide temporary relief or serve as alternatives for individuals who are not suitable candidates for surgery.

Consultation and Professional Advice:

If you suspect that you or someone you know may have ptosis, it is essential to consult with an experienced ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon. They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including an examination of your eyelid structure, muscle strength, and overall eye health, to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment option.

Remember, each case of ptosis is unique, and a personalised approach is necessary for optimal results. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and exploring the available treatment options, individuals with ptosis can make informed decisions to improve their eyelid functionality, restore confidence, and enhance their overall well-being.

Getting Help 

If you are concerned, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation with our kind and discreet experts. You can call us on 01772 663977, email the team on info@greaterlancashirehospital or send us a secure message on our website. 

5 Symptoms of Heart Disease

Understanding the Warning Signs: 5 Symptoms of Heart Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore
 

Heart disease is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Recognising the warning signs and seeking timely medical attention can make a significant difference in managing the disease and preventing potential complications.

In this blog post, we shed light on the five key symptoms of heart disease that individuals should never ignore.

1. Chest Pain

Chest pain or discomfort is one of the most common signs of heart disease. It may manifest as a squeezing or tightness in the chest, pressure, or a heavy sensation. The pain may also radiate to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back. Understanding the nature and duration of chest pain can help individuals identify whether it is related to heart health.

2. Shortness of Breath

Breathlessness or difficulty in breathing, especially during physical exertion or while lying down, can be an indication of heart disease. It may be accompanied by a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Paying attention to any persistent changes in your breathing patterns is crucial.

3. Fatigue and Weakness

Feeling unusually tired or experiencing persistent fatigue, even after adequate rest, can be a sign of heart disease. The heart’s reduced ability to pump blood efficiently can lead to a lack of oxygen supply to the body’s tissues, resulting in fatigue and weakness.

4. Dizziness and Fainting

Heart disease can disrupt blood flow to the brain, leading to episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness. Fainting or syncope can also occur due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.

5. Swelling and Fluid Retention

Heart disease can cause fluid to accumulate in the body, resulting in swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen. This condition, known as edema, may be accompanied by weight gain and a bloated sensation. Recognizing and monitoring changes in your body’s fluid balance is essential.

 

By familiarising yourself with these five symptoms of heart disease, you can be proactive in seeking appropriate medical care when necessary. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing heart disease effectively. Prioritising your cardiovascular health and promptly addressing any concerns can contribute to a healthier and happier life

Getting Help 

If you are concerned, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation with our kind and discreet cardiology experts. You can call us on 01772 663977, email the team on info@greaterlancashirehospital or send us a secure message on our website. 

Endometriosis: what it is and when should you seek treatment

Endometriosis: what it is and when should you seek treatment
 

Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the endometrium (the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus or womb) is present outside of the uterus. Endometriosis most commonly occurs in the lower abdomen or pelvis, but it can appear anywhere in the body. It may spread to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, bowel or bladder, or anywhere inside the abdominal cavity.  

Often, endometriosis causes pain far greater than would be expected during a normal menstrual cycle, but even in cases where no pain is experienced, the condition can lead to organ damage, internal scarring and infertility.

Key facts

  • Endometriosis affects roughly 10% of reproductive age women and girls globally.
  • It is a chronic disease associated with severe, life-impacting pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements and/or urination, chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, fatigue, and sometimes depression and infertility.
  • Endometriosis can start at a person’s first menstrual period and last until menopause.
  • There is currently no known cure for endometriosis and treatment is usually aimed at controlling symptoms.
  • Access to early diagnosis and effective treatment of endometriosis is important, but is limited in many settings, including in low- and middle-income countries.

What are The Symptoms of Endometriosis?

Some of the symptoms of endometriosis may at first seem to overlap with normal symptoms that occur during the menstrual cycle. This is because menstruation affects women differently; some experience longer periods or heavier bleeding, some experience bloating or lower back pain while others do not. This means it is important to be aware of what is normal for you, so you can more easily identify when things feel different. 

Pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis.  Women with endometriosis can experience pelvic or lower abdominal pain, pain with intercourse and pain during bowel movements.  Symptoms can be constant or “cyclical,” meaning that they worsen before and during the period, and then improve. Women may have constant pelvic or lower abdominal pain as well. Other symptoms include infertility, bowel and bladder symptoms (bloating, constipation, blood in the urine, or pain with urination), and possibly abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Common Symptoms 

  • Period pain that prevents you from following your normal routines 
  • A cramping or stabbing pain in your pelvis that gets worse during your period 
  • Lower back pain or lower tummy pain that gets worse during your period 
  • Pain during or after sex 
  • Difficulty getting pregnant 
  • Excessively heavy periods

Of these symptoms, excessively heavy periods is often one of the hardest to judge. While every woman’s menstrual cycle differs slightly, there is some general guidance on what is normal.

What is ‘normal’ for a period 

It’s hard to say what’s normal, as every woman has a menstrual cycle that is unique to her. On average, a cycle lasts 28 days, but a normal menstrual cycle could be as short as 22 days or as long as 36 days. 

Your period can last between 2 and 7 days, but it will usually last for about 5 days. The bleeding tends to be heaviest in the first 2 days. When your period is at its heaviest, the blood will be red. On lighter days, it may be pink or brown. You’ll lose about 20 to 90ml (about 1 to 5 tablespoons) of blood during your period, although some women bleed more heavily than this.

Some women experience PMS (premenstrual syndrome) as part of their menstrual cycle, which includes symptoms such as breast tenderness, headaches, mood swings, tiredness, bloating and changes in sex drive and appetite. PMS usually goes away once a period starts.  

You may be experiencing a heavier than ‘normal’ period if you’re:

  • bleeding through your clothes
  • passing large clots
  • having to change your period product more frequently
  • having to use 2 different products at the same time
  • having heavy periods every month that stop you doing everyday activities

Untreated heavy or prolonged bleeding can stop you from living your life to the fullest. It also can cause anemia. Anemia is a common blood problem that can leave you feeling tired or weak.

 

Do heavy periods mean you have endometriosis?

Not in all cases. Heavy, painful menstrual bleeding does not mean there is anything seriously wrong but could be a sign of fibroids, endometrial polyps or endometriosis. In post-menopausal women, vaginal bleeding can also be a sign of cancer of the womb. According to the NHS, the cause of heavy periods is unknown in about half of women.

Treatment for heavy periods

Depending on how heavy your periods are, there are several treatment options available. Heavy periods do not always need to be treated. But there are treatments that can help if they’re affecting your daily life.

Treatments from a GP include:

  • some types of contraception, such as an intrauterine system (IUS)  or the combined contraceptive pill 
  • medicine to help reduce the bleeding, such as tranexamic acid 
  • prescription-only anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as mefenamic acid or naproxen

If these treatments are not successful, there are also surgical options. The one you are recommended will depend on various factors personal to you, including your age and whether you have completed your family, as well as the cause and severity of your symptoms. 

  • Endometrial ablation

In this procedure a laser or heat is used to destroy the lining of the uterus resulting in lighter periods. 

  • Focused ultrasound surgery

This is a non-invasive procedure where ultrasound waves are used to destroy fibroid tissue and shrink fibroids.

  • Hysterectomy

This is the removal of your cervix and uterus. It results in the permanent end of your periods and stops you from being able to get pregnant. If you have your ovaries removed at the same time this will trigger immediate menopause. 

When should you visit a doctor?

You know your body and your menstrual cycle better than anyone else. If you are worried about how much you are bleeding during your menstrual cycle, have noticed your periods have become heavier or are experiencing some of the other common endometriosis symptoms, such as severe period pain, then it is time to schedule an appointment with your doctor.  

Investigating your symptoms

At Greater Lancashire Hospital, we have some of the UK’s leading experienced consultants specialising in women’s health, who can thoroughly investigate your symptoms and offer a treatment plan to resolve or reduce them. 

Diagnosis of heavy periods starts with a set of questions that include other symptoms, your current medical conditions, medicines that are being taken followed by physical examination of your abdomen and pelvis. This can help them detect the presence of fibroids. They may also recommend an ultrasound scan, which uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the tissues within your body. This can help detect a range of conditions, including fibroids, endometriosis and cancer. 

If the results of these tests and examinations are unclear and depending on your symptoms and medical history, you may be referred to for further tests, such as a laparoscopy. This is a type of keyhole surgery where a small incision is made into the abdomen so that a thin tube can be passed through. This tube has a light and a camera at the end of it which allows your consultant to detect the presence of any excess tissue growth caused by endometriosis.

Treating endometriosis

If you are diagnosed with endometriosis, there are several treatment options available to reduce your symptoms. Your doctor will advise you on which are best depending on how severe your symptoms are and your medical history. No treatments cure the disease.

Your gynaecologist will discuss the treatment options with you and outline the risks and benefits of each.

  • Pain medication

Anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, may be tried to see if they help reduce your pain. They can be used together for more severe pain.

  • Hormone treatment

The aim of hormone treatment is to limit or stop the production of oestrogen in your body, as oestrogen encourages endometriosis tissue to grow and shed. One of the main hormone-based treatments for endometriosis includes the combined oral contraceptive pill.

  • Surgery

Surgery can be used to remove or destroy areas of endometriosis tissue, which can help improve symptoms. The kind of surgery you have will depend on where the endometriosis is and how much of it there is. Some of the options are: Laparoscopy, the most commonly used technique, where small cuts (incisions) are made in your tummy so the endometriosis tissue can be destroyed or cut out.

Alternatively, If keyhole surgery and other treatments have not worked and you do not want to try to get pregnant, removal of the womb (a hysterectomy) might be an option. A hysterectomy is a major operation that will have a significant impact on your body.

Getting Help 

You are not alone with your symptoms. Endometriosis is a common condition affecting one in 10 women. Early diagnosis can help with treatment. If you are concerned, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation with our kind and discreet gynaecological experts. You can call us on 01772 663977, email the team on info@greaterlancashirehospital or send us a secure message on our website. 

When to See a Urologist and What To Expect: A Guide For Men

When to See a Urologist and What To Expect: A Guide For Men
 

1 in 2 people will be affected by a urology condition

The Urology Foundation suggests that 1 in 2 people will be affected by a urology condition in their lifetimes, but often people are either too embarrassed to ask for help when they have a problem, or don’t think a doctor would be able to help.

Ideally, any man above the age of 40 should add one more item to his to-do list: book a visit to the urologist.

For men, this is an important step in looking after their body, as a urologist can identify and treat several key issues that affect long-term health.

In the U.K, approximately 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. In addition, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men in their late 20s and early 30s, with an average age of diagnosis of 33 years old.

 It is also estimated that up to 7% of men are affected by infertility. All of these issues fall under the care of a urologist.

What is a urologist?

Urology is a branch of medicine that deals with the male (and female) urinary system and includes the reproductive system.

Specifically for men, a urologist is trained to deal with diseases that involve the kidneys, adrenal glands, bladder, and male reproductive organs. Men’s sexual health plays a large role in the field of urology, including erectile dysfunction and low testosterone.

A considerable part of a Urologists job is to also help with cancers of the male reproductive system.

Some examples of urologic diseases or issues:

Prostate enlargement: 

 The prostate is a small gland, located in the pelvis, between the penis and bladder. If the prostate becomes enlarged, it can place pressure on the bladder and the urethra, which is the tube that urine passes through. If you find yourself going to the bathroom more frequently or in the middle of the night, this could be the issue.

Kidney stones: 

These are a painful and quite common issue, with more than 1 in 10 people affected. They can lead to kidney infections or the kidney not working properly if left untreated. This painful issue is caused from either dehydration, diet problems or too much calcium excretion by the kidneys. Back or flank pain, nausea and blood in urine are common warning signs.

Urinary tract infections: 

You might know you have a problem if you experience pain or discomfort while urinating, and a burning sensation might accompany it. You may also feel the need to urinate more often, including during the night, and your urine may be cloudy. This can be accompanied by a pain in your back or abdomen and a high or low temperature with chills.

Urinary leakage: 

Incontinence is a serious bladder issue. An overactive bladder muscle, a weak sphincter or an overflowing bladder may cause unfortunate episodes of leakage.

Low testosterone: 

As men grow older, testosterone levels naturally decrease. But too much loss leads to hypogonadism, which is defined as testosterone levels below 300 nanograms per deciliter. Low sex drive and fatigue are common warning signs.

Overactive bladder: 

More than 20 million struggle with frequent urination, rushing to the bathroom and trips to the bathroom at night. The usual cause is the bladder spasming while filling with urine.

When might you need to see a urologist?

Ifyou are experiencing any of the following conditions, it is likely you will already be seeing a urologist or recommended that you do so:

  • Any concerns regarding the testicles, penis, or prostate
  • Cancer of the kidneys, bladder, testicles, penis, or prostate
  • Hormone imbalance such as low testosterone
  • Issues when urinating such as pain or the presence of blood
  • Sudden changes in smell, color, or odour of urine
  • Urinary leakage or problems with urine flow
  • Kidney stones or kidney pain in general

You might be referred to a urologist for many other reasons. This can include erectile problems resulting from low testosterone, so testing will be done to determine the level of fertility issues such as low sperm count.

In addition, Urologists are the medical professionals who perform vasectomies, a severing of the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles, resulting in permanent sterilization so that conception cannot occur with a partner.

However, the procedure can be reversed and is all part of the vast, varied and highly specialized work that urologists worldwide do every day.

What does a urologist do on the first visit?

During your first appointment with the urologist, several things will happen. Mainly, be prepared to discuss why you’re there. It may help for you to bring a list of questions or symptoms related to why you made the appointment. You should also be prepared to fill out paperwork and answer questions about your medical history and any medications you might be taking. 

Your urologist is likely to order tests to diagnose your condition and to determine the best way to treat it. Some of these tests may include:

  • Physical examination: The urologist will perform a physical exam. They will concentrate on the genitourinary system and evaluate other systems as well. The physician will perform a genital exam plus a digital rectal exam to assess the prostate. Urology exams are generally quick and painless.
  • Urine sample: The urologist will want a specimen to test, so it’s advisable to turn up for your appointment with a full bladder.
  • Blood tests 
  • Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans.

Your urologist may want to do additional tests to check testosterone levels, kidney functions, semen samples, or a test for PSA (prostate-specific antigen). In addition, they may require further imaging studies.

This can include sonography of the kidneys, the bladder, and/or the prostate; or an imaging scan to visualize specific organs. This will all be discussed with you after the initial exam.

After the examination, the urologist will discuss a treatment plan for you to determine what is happening. Some patients may need a follow-up appointment arranged or may be booked for surgery.

What should I look for in a men’s urologist near me?

There’s no need to be anxious about a visit to see a urologist. They are highly trained professionals who will treat you with respect, patience and give you all the time you need to ask questions.

This is especially true at a Private Hospital such as ours, as unlike a general hospital, we typically won’t have high numbers of patients and doctors rushing around, so our medical professionals, can and do spend more time with the people they’re diagnosing and treating. Such is our high standard of patient care, we are rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission. 

Our industry-leading urologists are available now to see you at our award-winning, friendly, private hospital in Preston. Get in touch with our team to book an appointment. 

Get in contact

For more information or to book a consultation with one of our leading specialists, contact our team by calling 01772 663977, or you can email on:

[email protected]