Patient FAQs
Straightforward answers to the questions patients ask most.
Appointments
Booking & First Visit
Is a referral needed to see Dr. Anwar?
No referral is needed. You can book directly by calling +91 98398 65247, via WhatsApp, or through the contact page.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring any prior imaging (ultrasound, CT, X-ray) on CD or film, recent blood and urine test reports, and a list of current medications. A brief diary of fluid intake and toilet frequency over 24–48 hours is very helpful if you have urinary symptoms.
Do I need to fast before a urology consultation?
For a standard consultation, fasting is not required. If a blood test or ultrasound is planned on the same visit, you may be asked to fast for 4–6 hours beforehand — confirm when booking.
Are phone or teleconsultation appointments available?
Yes, for follow-up queries and review of existing reports. Initial evaluations and any physical examination must be in person. Contact the clinic directly to arrange a teleconsultation slot.
Conditions
Common Questions
What is the difference between a urologist and a nephrologist?
A urologist is a surgeon who treats conditions of the urinary tract and male reproductive system — kidney stones, prostate issues, incontinence, and surgery. A nephrologist is a physician (non-surgeon) who manages chronic kidney disease, dialysis, and blood pressure problems related to kidney function.
I saw blood in my urine once — should I be concerned?
Yes — even a single episode of visible blood in urine (haematuria) needs evaluation, even if it resolves on its own. Blood can also be present microscopically without being visible to the eye. Both types should be assessed to rule out stones, infection, or other underlying causes.
Can diet prevent kidney stones from coming back?
Yes. The single most effective step is drinking 2.5–3 litres of water daily. For calcium oxalate stones (the most common type), also limit high-oxalate foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate), maintain normal calcium intake, and reduce salt and animal protein. Your stone composition report from the lab will guide more specific advice.
At what age should men start getting a prostate check?
Most guidelines suggest discussing PSA screening from age 50, or from 40–45 if there is a family history of prostate cancer. Symptoms of BPH (non-cancerous enlargement) — weak stream, night-time urination, urgency — can begin in the 40s and should not be dismissed as simply ageing.
Can recurrent urinary infections be treated permanently?
Recurrent UTIs often have an underlying cause — incomplete bladder emptying, stones, anatomical factors, or hormonal changes in women. Once the cause is identified and addressed, infections usually become much less frequent or stop entirely. Preventive strategies can also help while investigations are in progress.
Procedures
Surgery & Treatment
How does PCNL differ from laser stone treatment?
Laser treatment (URSL or RIRS) is done entirely through the natural urinary passage — no incision — and suits stones up to about 2 cm. PCNL uses a small keyhole opening in the back to reach the kidney directly and is preferred for larger or complex stones (2 cm+). PCNL typically means 2–3 nights in hospital; laser usually 1 night.
Will I need a catheter after prostate surgery?
Yes — a urinary catheter is placed during prostate surgery (TURP or laser) and is typically removed 1–2 days after the procedure once urine has cleared. Most patients are discharged the same day or the next morning.
What is a cystoscopy and is it painful?
A cystoscopy is a visual examination of the bladder using a thin, flexible camera passed through the urethra. Flexible cystoscopy under local anaesthetic gel is uncomfortable rather than painful — most patients tolerate it well in the outpatient setting. Rigid cystoscopy is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia.
How soon after stone surgery can I fly or travel long distance?
After minimally invasive procedures (URSL, ESWL), most patients can travel within 3–5 days. After PCNL, it is advisable to wait at least 7–10 days before long-distance travel and 4–6 weeks before heavy physical activity.
Men's Health
Andrology & Fertility
Can a varicocele cause infertility even with a normal semen analysis?
Yes. Varicoceles can impair sperm DNA integrity and function even when standard semen counts and motility appear normal on paper. In couples with unexplained infertility where a clinical varicocele is found, surgical repair (varicocelectomy) is often recommended before proceeding to assisted reproduction.
Is erectile dysfunction treatable without surgery?
In the majority of cases, yes. First-line treatment includes oral medications (PDE5 inhibitors), lifestyle changes (weight loss, regular exercise, stopping smoking), and addressing underlying conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Surgical options (penile implants) are only considered when medical treatments have failed.
How long after vasectomy reversal before sperm return?
Sperm typically return to the ejaculate within 3–6 months of reversal. Pregnancy rates are highest when the reversal is performed within 10 years of the original vasectomy and depend also on the female partner's age and fertility.
Women & Children
Female & Paediatric Urology
Is urinary leakage after childbirth normal?
Some leakage (stress incontinence) in the weeks after delivery is common and often improves with consistent pelvic floor exercises. If it persists beyond 3 months, or if it is affecting daily activities or sleep, a specialist review is worthwhile — effective treatments range from physiotherapy and pessaries to minor day-case procedures.
At what age is bedwetting in children a medical concern?
Bedwetting is developmentally normal up to age 5–6. Persistent bedwetting after age 7, any leakage during the day at any age, or secondary bedwetting (returning after 6 consecutive dry months) all warrant a specialist review. Treatment is effective in the vast majority of children when started early.
My daughter keeps getting urinary infections — what could be causing it?
Recurrent UTIs in girls are common but should be investigated after 2–3 episodes. Causes include inadequate hydration, constipation, hygiene habits, or (less commonly) an anatomical issue with the kidneys or bladder. An ultrasound and urine culture are usually the starting point.
Still have a question?
If your question isn't covered here, the clinic team is happy to help before you book.