Urologists concerned over rising bladder ailments

Bengaluru: Observing bladder awareness in the month of November, city based urologists say that they have been witnessing a significant jump in number of patients with complicated bladder related ailments. Experts say that the majority of these patients are those who have stopped their treatment midway or delayed seeking medical attention during the lockdown in fear of getting infected by the coronavirus.

Dr Sunil Gowda, Urologist, Rajajinagar Kidney Stone Centre says, "We are at present getting patients with lots of complications and treating them has become quite challenging due to the coronavirus pandemic, patients have delayed seeking medical help and thus have endangered their health and even risked their lives."

Patients who needed only medical help for bladder related issues were prescribed medicines and advised lifestyle changes in terms of diet and exercise by their urologists who extended their help by offering online consultations during the lockdown. However, some patients who needed surgical intervention delayed their treatment and are now approaching their respective doctors where experts are finding it quite challenging to treat. Dr. Hanumantha Raju, Urologist, Rajajinagar Kidney Stone Centre said, "Delaying simple surgeries like kidney stone removal could lead to major issues in the long run. Delaying treatment is not the right option. Hospitals are taking all precautions and adopting all hygienic practices to ensure that their patient does not get infected."

Urologists state that while in men, urinary retention has been the commonest problem in the lockdown period, women had complaints of urinary tract infections. During the lockdown period many patients had shifted to alternative medicines and it has thus made the condition of the patients even worse.