Final answer:
A urologist is a medical professional who specializes in diseases and conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive organs, including BPH, which can significantly affect urinary function in men as they age. Urologists provide treatments ranging from medication to surgery depending on the severity of the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
A physician who specializes in urology is known as a urologist. Urology is a field of medicine that focuses on diseases and conditions of the male and female urinary tract systems and the male reproductive organs. While nephrologists deal with kidney related issues, including high blood pressure, kidney stones, and renal failure, urologists handle various conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and concerns relating to urination and the kidneys.
BPH is a significant area of concern for urologists, especially given that by the age of 80, up to 80 percent of men may be affected by this enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to urinary tract symptoms.
The field of urology encompasses various treatment approaches, from medication for mild to moderate symptoms to surgery for severe cases. Urologists work closely with patients to diagnose and treat conditions that may affect the urinary tract or male reproductive system, aiming to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.