Re: Urologist v. Neurourologist

["Bonnie Cunningham, R.N." <bcunning@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

<<<Can anyone of ya come up with reasons why I should go to the
neurourologist BEFORE being checked by the urologist?>>>>>

Barb:

I know you've received umpteen messages already (I'm late on the bandwagon
as I receive my posts via digest form) however, I would like to offer my
opinion.

As most of us know, there can be urinary problems associated with
Parkinson's, including urinary frequency, urgency, incomplete voiding and
subsequent dribbling.

 The same difficulties can be present in other ailments, or even due to the
aging process itself.

In Parkinson's, the muscles of the bladder become rigid and bradykinetic
making the bladder more difficult to empty.  In neurological illnesses or
injuries there can be something called a "neurogenic bladder" in which the
bladder does not properly empty and this leads to infections, frequency,
urgency incomplete voiding and subsequent dribbling (as above).

The urologist may or may not be aware of all the nuances associated with
Parkinson's that is probably why your PCP offered the option of seeking
care from a neuro-urologist.   Just as in some cases, an internal medicine
doctor might be up on the latest in PD and effectievly treat it, it is more
likely that the neurologist, or better yet, a movement disorders specialist
will be.

You are correct, other things factor into this decision, such as distance,
transportation, etc.  Hopefully, which ever doctor you choose, will be able
help you.  Good luck!

Bonnie Cunningham, R.N.
Patient Services Director
NPF