Bladder Health and Bladder Cancer: When to See a Urologist at Ackerman Urology

Bladder symptoms are common, but many patients delay seeing a urologist because they assume issues like urgency, leakage, or blood in the urine are simply part of aging. These symptoms can sometimes signal serious urologic conditions, including bladder cancer. 

According to the American Cancer Society, bladder cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the United States. Early evaluation by a urologist is important because many bladder conditions, including bladder cancer, are highly treatable when diagnosed early. 

Why Bladder Health Matters 

The bladder is part of the urinary tract and works closely with the kidneys, ureters, and urethra to store and remove urine from the body. When the bladder is not functioning properly, symptoms can interfere with sleep, work, travel, exercise, and overall quality of life. 

Ackerman Urology specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the urinary tract in both men and women. 

Common Bladder Symptoms a Urologist Evaluates 

Bladder symptoms should never be ignored, especially if they are persistent or worsening. 

Common symptoms include: 

  • Frequent urination 
  • Sudden urgency to urinate 
  • Burning or pain during urination 
  • Urine leakage (urinary incontinence) 
  • Waking up at night to urinate (nocturia) 
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria) 

These symptoms may be caused by infections, overactive bladder, kidney stones, prostate conditions, pelvic floor disorders, or bladder cancer. 

Bladder Cancer Risk Factors 

Bladder cancer most commonly affects adults over age 55 and occurs more frequently in men.  

Urologists look closely at several bladder cancer risk factors, including: 

  • Smoking tobacco 
  • Exposure to industrial chemicals 
  • Chronic bladder inflammation 
  • Family history of bladder cancer 
  • Arsenic exposure in drinking water 

Smoking remains the leading risk factor. The American Cancer Society reports smokers are at least three times more likely to develop bladder cancer than nonsmokers. 

Certain occupations may also increase risk due to chemical exposure, including: 

  • Hairdressers 
  • Painters 
  • Printers 
  • Dry cleaners 

Early Signs of Bladder Cancer 

The most common early sign of bladder cancer is blood in the urine, also called hematuria. 

Blood in the urine may appear: 

  • Pink 
  • Bright red 
  • Rust-colored 
  • Dark brown 

Sometimes blood is only visible under a microscope, known as microhematuria. 

Other bladder cancer symptoms may include: 

  • Frequent urination 
  • Urinary urgency 
  • Burning with urination 
  • Difficulty emptying the bladder 

Even one episode of blood in the urine should be evaluated by a urologist. 

How a Urologist Diagnoses Bladder Cancer 

If bladder cancer is suspected, a urologist may recommend several diagnostic tests. 

  • Urinalysis – A urine test can detect blood, infection, or abnormal cells. 
  • Imaging Tests – CT scans, ultrasounds, or MRIs help evaluate the kidneys, ureters, and bladder for tumors, stones, or other abnormalities. 
  • Cystoscopy – Cystoscopy is one of the most important tools in urology. During this minimally invasive procedure, a urologist uses a small camera to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra. Cystoscopy is typically performed in the office and usually takes only a few minutes. 

Currently, there is no routine screening test for bladder cancer in people without symptoms. 

Common Non-Cancerous Bladder Conditions 

Not all bladder symptoms are caused by cancer. Urologists also diagnose and treat several common non-cancerous bladder conditions. 

Overactive Bladder (OAB) 

Overactive bladder causes urgency, frequent urination, nighttime urination, and sometimes leakage. Treatment may include: 

  • Bladder training 
  • Dietary changes 
  • Pelvic floor therapy 
  • Medications 
  • Botox injections 
  • Nerve stimulation therapy 

Urinary Incontinence 

Urinary incontinence involves loss of bladder control. Treatment depends on the type and severity of symptoms and may include pelvic floor physical therapy, medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery. 

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) 

Frequent UTIs can cause urgency, burning, and bladder discomfort. A urologist can evaluate for underlying causes such as kidney stones, incomplete bladder emptying, or structural abnormalities. 

Neurogenic Bladder 

Conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injuries can disrupt bladder nerve function, leading to urinary retention, urgency, or leakage. 

When to See a Urologist at Ackerman Urology 

Patients should schedule an evaluation with a urologist if they experience: 

  • Blood in the urine 
  • Frequent urinary urgency 
  • Pain or burning with urination 
  • Urine leakage affecting daily life 
  • Recurrent UTIs 
  • Difficulty emptying the bladder 

Bladder symptoms are common, but they are not considered a normal part of aging. 

Why Early Diagnosis Matters 

Early diagnosis allows urologists to identify bladder cancer and other urinary conditions before they become more advanced. Many bladder disorders can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive treatments, or out-patient surgery. 

If you are experiencing persistent bladder symptoms, scheduling an evaluation with a urologist at Ackerman Urology can help identify the cause and improve your quality of life. For more information, please call (904) 490-7400 or visit ackermanurology.com

Support & Resources Home

Share:

More Posts

Categories

Read More

Home

Contact

Carly Camera, MBA

Manager

Carly Camera joined Ackerman Cancer Center in July 2017 and played an integral role in the successful opening of Ackerman Urology in October 2019. She manages all Ackerman Urology locations, overseeing operations, supporting continued growth, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care. Carly earned her MBA in Health Care Management and her MBA in Human Resource Management from Saint Leo University. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, time spent outdoors fishing or near the water, and watching sports.

Kali Molter, MBA

Community Relations Specialist

Kali Molter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in August 2024 and supports community outreach, marketing initiatives, and engagement efforts. She holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from the University of North Florida. A Jacksonville native and Bishop Kenny alum, Kali is passionate about contributing to and strengthening the local community. She brings experience in hospitality and event management and serves on the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX Professional Development and Community Engagement committees. Outside of work, Kali enjoys living at the beach, running and yoga, traveling, and is a lifelong Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

Timothy Scott, RTR, RTT, CMD

Manager, Dosimetry, Facilities, & Research

Tim Scott joined Ackerman Cancer Center in 2003 and brings nearly 40 years of experience in radiation oncology and medical dosimetry operations. He oversees medical dosimetry, facilities, special projects, and research and has played a key role in nearly every building project and major technology launch at the center. Tim is passionate about innovation and the development, construction, and commissioning of advanced treatment technologies, including proton therapy. Beyond his professional work, Tim serves as a worship pastor and is a brass musician. In his free time, he enjoys restoring classic cars and spending time on the lake.

Greg Sarkisov, BS

Director of Information Technology

Greg Sarkisov joined Ackerman Cancer Center in September 2019 and oversees all facets of information technology and information security within the organization. Greg has over twenty years of experience in information technology and security. With over six of those years in our practice, he has led initiatives to strengthen our core security and expand the use of various technologies to help aid our staff in providing effective and efficient patient care. Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information systems security from ITT Technical Institute. Outside of work, he stays active in the community and is a member of the IT Council with the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. In his free time, Greg enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

Jennifer Zelaya, MHA

Director of Human Resources

Jenny Zelaya is the director of human resources at Ackerman Cancer Center and Ackerman Urology, where she oversees all HR functions and fosters a positive, inclusive workplace culture. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Miami and brings extensive experience in talent management, employee engagement, and regulatory compliance. Fluent in Spanish, Jennifer enjoys staying active outside of work, playing pickleball, golfing with friends and family, and spending time with her golden retriever, Lenny.

Amy Mousa, CPA

Director of Finance and Accounting

Amy Mousa joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2021 and serves as the director of finance and accounting. In her role, she oversees financial operations and supports the organization’s strategic and operational goals. Amy holds a Florida CPA license and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from the University of North Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz, MBA

Vice President, Operations

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2020 and leads strategic planning initiatives across all departments, directs all aspects of revenue cycle management, and works to develop and maintain relationships with community partners. Gigi holds an MBA from Tulane University. A Jacksonville native, she is involved in several local charitable and civic organizations. She serves as chair of the Art in Public Places Committee for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, is a member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet, and is a trustee of the Jewish Community Alliance and Jacksonville Jewish Center. In her free time, Gigi enjoys playing mahjong, exploring new hobbies with friends, and spending time with her husband and two-year-old daughter.

Baylee Richter, BS

Community Relations Manager

Baylee Richter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2024 and oversees digital campaigns, brand strategy, and community outreach and engagement. With more than eight years of experience in events and marketing, she has led initiatives that strengthen patient engagement, community awareness, and referral growth. Baylee holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Outside of work, she stays actively involved in the community through her service on the board of the American Lung Association. She also supports the American Cancer Society’s Cowford Ball as a member of the children’s art project committee and contributes to the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX program, serving on two committees. In her free time, Baylee enjoys spending time with her Australian Shepherd, Cooper, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.