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I’m Katie, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and Founder of Shift Wellness Collective. I enrolled at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition after many years of dealing with my own health issues. For the longest time I viewed being “healthy” as intimidating and unattainable. As a result, my day…
About Sunset Moth Wellness Sunset Moth Wellness provides practical wellness support and solutions through comprehensive health education and care. It serves the general population (both adults and children) and offers burnout recovery and prevention training to helping professionals and students. …
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Hi! I’m Melissa King and I’m a certified health coach and personal trainer specializing in helping women overcome their anxiety and depression so they can be more productive, have more energy, and live an abundant life. I believe that in order to create healthy lifestyle habits that are sustainable…
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Hennie helps women overcome exhaustion, back pain, postpartum core & pelvic health challenges so they can confidently thrive with vitality & resilience! Hennie is a dedicated women’s health advocate, educator and coach serving women of all ages in North America. In her local practice as a …
I'm Kelly Corbitt! I'm in the business of helping Women Feel Better, While Gaining Control Over Their Bodies and Overall Wellness....It's never too late to start getting healthy, to enjoy every day into the latter years of life! I can walk by your side as we get there together as I have with many o…
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Small Consistent Steps = Big Changes Unlock Your Wellness Potential Redefine Your Well-Being Mind-Body Reset for Lasting Wellness As a certified Women's Health Coach through the Integrative Women's Health Institute. I support women in lasting behavior changes, mindfulness, and creating eas…
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Thinking I was a healthy woman came to an end when symptoms like a heart attack, psoriatic arthritis, hypothyroidism, brain fog, and a few more health problems pretty much halted my life. It resulted in being bedridden and needing a wheelchair to get around. Add to that a severe depression and feel…
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Jennifer is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and is passionate about helping people with personal growth and health modification through a collaborative and integrative approach to nutrition, lifestyle, and behavior. Jennifer’s 360-degree approach to wellness consists of nutrition and…
I’m Jill Johnson, an Integrative Health Coach with a passion for living well … lover of dark chocolate, coffee, and wine! Also, I love feeling my best in mind, body, and soul. I have always been fascinated by the human body and believe we are truly what we eat, breathe, sleep, and think.As a Cer…
Break Free. Rebalance. Thrive — Coaching & Reiki for Mind, Body & Soul Rooted in The Health Mind and Body Method Welcome! I’m Cheryl Dantoni, a Certified Health Coach and Shoden-Level Reiki Practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping 100+ individuals transform their relationship with …
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Welcome to Bright Medical Wellness, LLC, your dedicated partner in the transformative journey towards a healthier, more vibrant you. Established and licensed in 2024, we stand at the forefront of the Health and Wellness industry, committed to educating and promoting wise lifestyle choices. Our team…
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I thought I was following a healthy diet when I had my first gout attack, and the only resources I had were local libraries and writing to the World Health Organization for all known alternative remedies. I went through 20 years of acute attacks in several joints, spending weeks in bed taking far…
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Hi, I'm Jaci Salley, a Holistic Nutritionist and Personal Trainer dedicated to helping you achieve balance through whole, natural foods and exercise. My journey in holistic nutrition and wellness coaching has fueled my passion for empowering others to take charge of their health. I believe in a …
FAQs:
What is Men’s Health?
Men's health refers to the state of physical, mental, and social well-being of men, and encompasses a wide range of issues that are unique to men or that affect men differently than women. This can include issues related to reproductive health, sexual health, cardiovascular health, mental health, and cancer prevention and treatment. Men's health also encompasses lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management, as well as access to healthcare and preventative measures.
How Important is Men's Health?
June is National Men’s Health Month, a time to remind men of the health issues they face and what they can do to take charge of their health. Here are some other important facts about men’s health to know:
1. The overall mortality rate is 41 percent higher for men than women, and it’s higher for men for 8 out of 10 leading causes of death—including heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes.
2. 31 percent of men suffer depression in their lifetime and 9 percent of men have daily feelings of depression or anxiety. But only 1/4 talk to a mental health professional, and only 1/3 take medication. Pay attention to signs of depression and don’t be afraid to seek help.
3. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for men in the United States. A man is 2 to 3 times more likely to get prostate cancer if his father, brother, or son had it. Talk to your doctor about having PSA and DRE levels checked.
4. Erectile dysfunction affects nearly 30 million men of all ages across the United States. If you’re having problems, see a urologist and make sure it’s not an early warning sign for something more serious, like heart disease, high blood pressure, or high blood sugar.
Why Does Men's Health Matter?
Did you know the life expectancy for U.S. men is nearly six years less than women? This is often due to higher instances of life-threatening conditions and not getting regular health checkups or preventative screenings. Explore this guide to learn about common issues and ways to improve your health.
What is a Male Health Check?
A male health check monitors a man’s health, detects any medical conditions early, and offers advice on ways to improve their health. These checks can identify underlying health problems early on. This allows men to make changes or have treatment that can increase their chance of a better health outcome.
What Age Should a Man Have a Health Check?
Men can suffer from health issues at every stage of their lives. Regular health checks for men can help in the early detection of several conditions and diseases including prostate cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Health checks for men are between 40 and 74 years of age. This health check gives men information about whether they are at higher risk of getting certain health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and stroke.
Testicular cancer, although relatively uncommon, affects younger men aged 15 and 49. A private health check can include extra tests for testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and urological conditions such as erectile dysfunction. They can be booked in a man’s earlier years and at regular intervals for peace of mind.
What is the Role of Testosterone in Men's Health?
Testosterone is the major sex hormone in males. It is essential to the development of male growth and masculine characteristics. Signals sent from the brain to the pituitary gland at the base of the brain control the production of testosterone in men. The pituitary gland then relays signals to the testes to produce testosterone. A "feedback loop" closely regulates the amount of hormones in the blood. When testosterone levels rise too high, the brain sends signals to the pituitary to reduce production.
Who Can Benefit from Men's Health Appointments?
Men of all ages and backgrounds can benefit from receiving specialized care, screenings, and guidance to address their unique health concerns and optimize overall well-being. Here are a few examples of those who would benefit from men’s health services:
1. Men seeking preventive care and health promotion
2. Individuals with concerns related to sexual health, including erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation
3. Those experiencing symptoms of low testosterone or hormonal imbalances
4. Men with prostate health concerns or a family history of prostate issues
5. Individuals with cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol
6. Men with mental health concerns, including stress, anxiety, or depression
What is the Effect of Low Libido On Men's Health?
Experiencing a decrease in sex drive can be distressing and often triggers a cycle of physical and emotional effects like stress, low self-esteem, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, and relationship issues. When low libido disrupts daily life and mental well-being, consulting a healthcare professional can be beneficial. They may recommend lifestyle and dietary adjustments, therapy or counseling, support groups, or medications like testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to help restore libido.
How Often Should I See a Men's Health Specialist?
Compared to women, men are more likely to put off regular checkups and medical care. However, many of the major health risks that men face can be prevented or are easier to treat when found early. You should check in with your men’s health provider at least once a year for a check-up. If you have a health issue such as low testosterone or BPH, your doctor might recommend more frequent appointments.
Key Areas of Focus in Men’s Health
Comprehensive men’s health services encompass a wide range of medical care elements that cater to the unique needs and concerns men may experience throughout their lives. Crucial areas of focus in men’s health include:
1. Preventive Care and Screenings: Regular check-ups and recommended screenings such as prostate exams and colon cancer screenings can help identify potential health issues early and facilitate timely intervention.
2. Heart Health and Early Detection: Providing guidance and support on lifestyle changes, risk factors, and early detection of heart disease can empower men to make informed decisions about their cardiovascular health.
3. Chronic Condition Management: Personalized care and guidance in managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis can help men maintain good health and prevent complications.
4. Mental Health and Wellness: Addressing men’s psychological and emotional well-being is an integral aspect of comprehensive healthcare, including discussions about stress management, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Signs Of Low Testosterone In Men
If your testosterone levels decrease below 300 ng/dL, you’ll likely begin to experience symptoms of low T. Men with low testosterone may experience these common symptoms:
- Male pattern baldness and thinning hair
- Loss of facial firmness
- Gynecomastia (man boobs)
- Abdominal obesity (belly fat)
- Decreased libido
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat
- Mood changes (irritability, depression, anxiety)
- Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and mental fog
- Insomnia
- Lack of motivation and drive
- Hot flashes
- Loss of self-confidence
Signs Of High Testosterone In Men
It is not common for men to have naturally high testosterone levels. Rather, in most cases, high testosterone levels are from the use of synthetic testosterone supplements such as an androgenic or anabolic steroid. However, sometimes health conditions such as pituitary gland dysfunction or adrenal tumors can lead to high testosterone in men.
Oddly enough, excess testosterone levels can lead to shrinking testicles and low sperm count in adult men. In adolescent boys, testosterone spikes can lead to poor growth and development. Other signs of high testosterone (T levels) include:
- Acne
- Fluid retention and weight gain
- Headaches
- Trouble sleeping
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Increase in muscle mass
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Damage to the heart muscle
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks
- Enlargement of the prostate gland and difficulties urinating
- Growth of prostate cancer cells
- Liver disease
- Behavior changes such as aggression, irritability, mood swings, poor judgment, and delusions
- Increased sex drive
- Increased erectile function
- Deeper voice
- More body hair
Top Men’s Health Issues
Men may be perceived as the physically stronger gender because they are bigger and more muscular than women. However, when it comes to health, it’s the other way around. Men are more likely to experience chronic health conditions earlier than women because of different lifestyle, biological, and social factors. Here are some of the most common health conditions affecting men, in no particular order.
1. Heart Disease
The risk factors for having heart disease vary depending on your cholesterol levels, diet, physical activity, and smoking habits. A 2013-2016 report from the American Heart Association states that 51.2% of males aged 20 and above have some form of cardiovascular disease. Routine checkups can help prevent heart disease, as well as eating healthy, exercising, and avoiding stress.
2. Diabetes
Over 13.7 million men were recorded to have diabetes in 2013-2016. Diabetes is a serious disease that, when left untreated, can cause vision problems, kidney damage, nerve damage, stroke, and heart disease. There are two types of diabetes, but they share several similar symptoms. These include having blurry vision, frequent urination, feeling thirsty, feeling hungry, fatigue, and cuts or sores that don’t heal properly. If you suspect that you may have diabetes, contact your doctor to get your blood sugar tested.
3. Stroke
There were 3.2 million cases of stroke in men from 2013 to 2016 in the United States. A stroke is caused by a clot that blocks the oxygen and nutrients to the brain. It causes brain damage and may also lead to limited physical movements, loss of memory, and slurred speech. Some of the factors that may lead to stroke include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, alcohol abuse, illegal drugs, and physical inactivity.
4. Liver Disease
In 2018, about 4.5 million adults in the United States were found to have some form of liver disease. If you have a liver condition, your body will have a hard time digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and getting rid of toxic substances. Some of the most common liver diseases include viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, bile duct cancer, alcoholic liver disease, and liver cancer. Abstaining or at least limiting your alcohol consumption and giving up smoking can help lower your risk of developing a liver condition.
5. COPD and Other Respiratory Diseases
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the medical term for chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The symptoms of chronic bronchitis include shortness of breath, cough, increased mucus, and frequent clearing of the throat. Meanwhile, the symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath and chronic reduction of one’s capacity for physical activity. Cases of lung cancer, on the other hand, increase every year. The number one cause of lung cancer is smoking.
6. Cancer
The top causes of cancer-related death in the United States are prostate cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. Each type of cancer has different risk factors, but some of the common ones for multiple types include alcohol consumption, tobacco use, overexposure to radiation and sunlight, chronic inflammation, obesity, and family history of the disease.
7. Influenza and Pneumonia
Men are about 20% more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications from influenza and pneumococcal infection than women. Those who have compromised immune systems due to a pre-existing condition like diabetes and heart disease are also more prone to these illnesses. The American Lung Association recommends vaccination to stay safe from influenza and pneumonia.
8. HIV and AIDS
The number of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is higher among men than women. Sadly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in seven men with HIV do not know they have it. Taking medicine, avoiding multiple sexual partners, and practicing safe sex by using condoms can help prevent the risk of being infected.
9. Unintentional Injuries
Accidental injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, are the third leading cause of death in the United States. Since these are caused by accidents and natural disasters, including vehicular accidents, falls, fires, and earthquakes, the best thing you can do is to stay safe and remain vigilant. Also, do not hesitate to rush to the ER during an emergency. Our hospital is ready to provide care 24/7.
10. Depression
Men are less likely to talk about their struggles for various reasons, including fear. However, this shouldn’t be the case as suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. At least 6 million men suffer from depression and related mental health conditions every year. Seeking professional help, getting regular exercise, and journaling are proven to help manage depression and anxiety. However, if you are suffering from extreme sadness or suicidal thoughts, call 911 immediately.
Best 10 Foods for Men’s Health
Some men may not know about the health benefits that certain foods provide in keeping a body in great shape. A realistic approach to better health is not just a heavy focus on the best food for men, but also including the classic favorites in moderation. Here are 10 superfoods for men that can bring great value to a man’s diet.
1. Cherries. Cherry pigment contains anthocyanins, an anti-inflammatory. Both sweet and tart cherries contain these special pigments, though you'll find more in the tart variety. Medical research has also shown that cherries are good at preventing gout, which occurs more often in men than women.
2. Turkey breast. Give thanks for the turkey, and not just on the third Thursday of November. This delicious bird has seven grams of protein per ounce and is high in B vitamins, zinc, and the cancer fighter selenium. Turkey is also the leanest meat you can find.
3. Whole grains. Oatmeal in the mornings. Whole grain bread for your lunchtime sandwiches. Brown rice and whole wheat pasta for dinner instead. These are all ways to switch up and get more benefits from your grains. And if you are gluten intolerant, try eating corn on the cob. It’s gluten-free, and research shows it’s high in antioxidants and carotenoids that are good for your eyes. If you need ideas for whole grains, try this Men’s Journal article for advice.
4. Shellfish. If you want low-fat, low-calorie, high-protein foods, then shellfish is the perfect meal. Crabs, oysters, shrimp, clams, and other shelled water dwellers are abundant with zinc. Three ounces of oysters alone pack 445% of your recommended daily value of zinc, which helps drive up testosterone levels and keep your prostate healthy. Without zinc in your diet, the chances of an inflamed or enlarged prostate increase, as well as your risk of developing prostate cancer.
5. Avocados. This fruit helps raise good cholesterol (HDL) while lowering bad cholesterol (LDL). How? With omega-3 fat. They also are chock full of antioxidants, which help reduce cell damage. Just be careful and eat them in moderation. Like nuts and olive oil, avocados are high in fat and calories. Fortunately, it's the good kind of fat though.
6. Fish with Omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to help fight disease by reducing inflammation in the blood vessels, joints, and elsewhere. High doses of omega-3 fatty acids also lower the risk of heart disease and reduce unhealthy fats in the bloodstream known as triglycerides. They also can slow plaque buildup inside the blood vessels. Since our bodies cannot make them, omega-3 fatty acids must come from foods or supplements. Salmon, halibut, and sardines are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids, as are walnuts and spinach.
7. Blueberries. Besides being loaded with antioxidants, blueberries have lots of vitamin K, which helps your blood clot, and plenty of vitamin C like most berries. They also help your arteries relax. Studies have also found that men who ate flavonoid-rich foods, especially blueberries, were less likely to experience erection problems.
8. Dairy. Yogurt (and milk) contain leucine, an amino acid that helps you build muscle. Dairy products don't have as much leucine as red meat, though, but they are still easier to eat because they take less preparation. Throwing some yogurt or cheese sticks into your lunch bag or pouring yourself a glass of milk is much easier than grilling up a steak.
9. Bananas. Bananas are a great source of potassium, which is great for preventing muscle spasms (like Charlie horses). They are also good for your bones. If you have pre-hypertension or high blood pressure, potassium could be as important as reducing your sodium when it comes to getting your blood pressure numbers down.
10. Nuts. Do you want to lower your cholesterol? Nuts are the way to go, especially tree nuts. Take almonds for example. A study out of Penn State showed that eating almonds daily helped lower the risk of heart disease and improved the body’s ability to rid itself of bad cholesterol. Pistachios are high in plant sterols, making them a good choice for lowering cholesterol too. They also add protein, zinc, and fiber to your diet. Brazil nuts are another flavorful tree nut that packs an incredible amount of selenium (see turkey breast) which plays an important role in your body's immune system.
Top Vitamins & Nutrients for Men's Health
Now there's no doubting the world of vitamins and nutrients is vast, and maybe a bit scary to navigate alone. So don't stress. Here are the 10 most valuable vitamins and nutrients to men's health to get you well on your way to being a well-fueled health machine!
1. Multivitamin: If you’re looking for just one supplement to cover all of your bases, it is a great whole-food multivitamin. It is extremely difficult to eat a diet so well-balanced and nutritious that it covers all of what’s found in a multivitamin. A great multivitamin is packed with everything you need including vitamins A, C, D, and K along with Biotin, B12 and so many amazing others. Multivitamins have been shown to increase your overall well-being and support heart health, bone and muscle function, and even eye health.
2. Vitamin D: This vitamin is essential for your well-being and overall health. Vitamin D helps promote bone health, boost the immune system, regulate our moods, and has even shown the potential to reduce the risk of cancer. Furthermore, if you live in an area that doesn't have as much sunlight, you're more likely deficient in this vitamin, making it extra important you get an ample supply. You can take these vitamins in the form of a pill or you eat foods such as salmon, cod liver oil, milk, cheese, egg yolks, and yogurt.
3. Vitamin C: Vitamin C plays an essential role in keeping our hair, skin, immune system, and even teeth healthy. Although Vitamin C deficiencies are pretty uncommon, it's still important to make sure your body is getting enough. Adding additional vitamin C into your regimen can help prevent you from getting sick. Vitamin C can be taken in a pill, tablet, chewable, or be found in tons of different foods. Foods such as cantaloupe, oranges, red cabbage, broccoli, red pepper, and tomato just to name a few.
4. Fish Oil (Omega 3/6/9’s): Fish Oil supplements contain essential fatty acids that your body needs to function such as omega 3/6/9. These fatty acids play a role in your heart health, hair strength, and skin and have been shown to help lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides, and aid in weight loss. Yes, weight loss! As counterintuitive as that sounds. Fish oil can be taken as a supplement or found in (you guessed it) fish. Specifically, salmon, tilapia, and oysters to name a few.
5. Vitamin A: This vitamin helps with our vision, cell growth, and even reproductive health. Vitamin A has also been shown to reduce acne breakouts and the frequency they occur. Vitamin A is found in a ton of different foods such as spinach, salmon, cheese, milk, and eggs.
6. Calcium: We’ve been hearing this one since we were little gents, “Drink your milk, it’ll make your bones grow strong!”. Well, whoever was telling you that wasn’t wrong. To be exact, it's the calcium that is making your bones healthy. But it also is essential for the function of your heart, muscles, and nerves. Calcium can be found in a plethora of different foods such as yogurt, milk, beans, almonds, and leafy greens.
7. Zinc: Zinc is an incredible vitamin that supports a ton of different parts of our bodies. Zinc helps support your immune system, increases how quickly our bodies heal themselves, increases learning and memory, increases libido, and in some cases has even been shown to increase penis size. You heard us right, and you're welcome. Zinc can be taken in a pill form or can be easily found in beans, nuts, fish, and certain dairy products.
8. Magnesium: Magnesium is a vitamin that is often taken alongside zinc, particularly in the supplement known as ZMA. Magnesium has been shown to have a ton of benefits for your body. Some of the most prominent include increased quality of sleep, increase in bone health, and increased heart health. They have even been know to work as an anti-inflammatory! Magnesium can be taken in a pill form or found in an array of foods like brown rice, salmon, avocado, cashews, and peanut butter.
9. B-Vitamins: B-Vitamins (also known as B-Complex) are a variety of vitamins that are clumped together into one category for our bodies. Vitamins like B-1 through B-6, Biotin, Folic Acid, and vitamin B12 are all included in this grouping. Essentially, what these B vitamins do is help with cellular function in our bodies, things such as breaking down carbohydrates and shuttling the nutrients across our bodies. This in turn leads to healthy brain activity, boosts metabolism, and aids in those feeling constantly fatigued. Taking a B Vitamin is essential for those of us who are vegan, as the majority of B vitamins are found in animal products. B vitamins are most commonly found in foods like cheese, salmon, red meat, spinach, and eggs. B vitamins can also be taken in liquid or tablet forms.
10. Biotin: Biotin is one of the very important B vitamins that aid in our health, and is most famously known for its effect on our hair, skin, and nails. Essentially, Biotin stimulates the production of Keratin in our body, which leads to strengthening our hair and making our nails healthier. Aside from the hair, skin, and nail benefits, biotin has been shown to aid in repairing muscle tissue, boost immunity, and improve brain function. Biotin is commonly taken in a tablet or gummy form but is also rich in foods like sweet potatoes, salmon, and eggs.
Tips to Improve Men’s Health
Many men struggle to maintain a healthy lifestyle while also trying to balance things like work, family, or school. If you are a man and want to improve your health, try these 12 tips today.
1. Stop Smoking
Smoking kills an average of 400,000 Americans each year and is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the U.S. If you stop smoking or never start, you can add years to your life.
2. Watch Your Weight
Staying healthy is easier when you are not overweight. Men who are obese are more likely to develop other complications, such as diabetes or heart disease.
3. Drink Alcohol in Moderation
Drinking too much alcohol is also bad for your health. Avoiding it entirely is one option, or you can simply limit consumption to no more than one to two glasses each day.
4. Check Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
It is also smart for men to get regular health checks, particularly with their blood pressure and cholesterol. If these numbers are too high, your health may be at risk.
5. Exercise
Exercise is an important part of maintaining your overall health. Regular physical activity offers numerous benefits, including both physical and emotional.
6. Get a Colonoscopy and Prostate Exam
As men age, they should consider regular prostate exams and a colonoscopy. These tests can catch diseases like colon or prostate cancer early and offer more treatment options.
7. Have Safe Sex
It is important to take precautions to prevent STDs by wearing a condom.
8. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is good for so many reasons, and it’s the time when your body and your mind can rejuvenate, process what happened throughout the day, store long-term memories, and make necessary repairs. It can also impact your efforts at long-term weight loss or weight maintenance, so make sure you get 7 or more hours each night.
9. Get an Annual Flu Shot
Nobody wants to spend several days in bed with symptoms like nausea, chills, and fever. Getting a flu shot in the fall can help prevent this disease during the highest-risk months of the winter. While it’s not a guarantee that you won’t get the flu, it is protection against the most common strain of the virus each year.
10. Eat Good Fats
When it comes to your diet, make an effort to eat good fats. Look for foods with omega-3 fatty acids and avoid saturated fats.
11. Wear Sunscreen
It is best to wear sunscreen every time you go outside. This reduces your risk of developing skin cancer.
12. Meditate or Relax
Finally, try meditation and relaxation to promote better mental health.
Common Services Available for Men’s Health
Men of all ages need routine services and any necessary testing and treatment. The following treatments and services are available for men:
- Prostate exams and screenings
- Other cancer screenings
- Physical examinations
- STD testing
- Smoking cessation services
- Nutrition services
- Immunizations
- Erectile dysfunction management
- Chronic disease management
- Testosterone replacement therapy
Different Doctors for Men's Health
Young men are typically at their peak health during their teenage years up until their 30s. Unless a young man has major risk factors for a serious illness, he may just need general checkups without a lot of additional testing. As men age, though, the need for more frequent checkups and screenings is important to catch any disease at an early stage. These are some of the doctors you’ll want to visit as you age to stay at your best.
1. Primary Care Physician
Your primary care doctor is the first line of defense against any kind of health problem. This doctor can answer many of your general healthcare questions. Your PCP will also provide checkups, including your blood pressure and BMI (body mass index). He or she can also keep your immunizations up to date. Depending on your risk factors, your doctor may send you to a specialist for additional tests and screenings. Be proactive by checking in with your primary care doctor regularly, even if you’re in general good health.
2. Cardiologist
Eating a heart-healthy diet might not be enough if you have a family history of heart problems. If you have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, visit a cardiologist, even if it’s just to discuss how you can stay heart-healthy. Of course, if you have any chest pain, that’s also a reason to schedule an appointment right away (or go to the emergency room if you experience pain in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, along with shortness of breath, which can indicate a heart attack).
3. Urologist
A urologist can address a host of men’s healthcare issues, including sexual health. If you’re having fertility problems or erectile dysfunction, a urologist can help. If you’re finished having children, go to a urologist for a vasectomy (or a reversal if you decide you want more kids). Beyond sexual function, signs you need to schedule an appointment include bladder control problems, painful urination, urinary tract infections, or kidney stones.
4. Gastroenterologist
While a colonoscopy might be last on your to-do list, it’s one test a gastroenterologist will use to check for polyps in the colon or rectum. Polyps can be an early sign of cancer, so don’t skip this test. You’ll need a colonoscopy about every 10 years, but if you’re at higher risk of developing colon cancer, you might need to have the test more often. Talk to a gastroenterologist about your medical history and risk factors for colon cancer.
5. Dermatologist
You might think a dermatologist’s role is limited to treating acne, but these specialists treat thousands of diseases, including skin cancer. If you have a mole that changes appearance, have a dermatologist check it out. He or she might recommend removing it for a biopsy to determine whether it’s cancerous. Other reasons to schedule a visit include skin problems such as eczema, hair or scalp problems, pigment issues, cosmetic treatments, and, of course, acne.
6. Dentist
Brushing your teeth twice a day isn’t always enough. Because about 30% of Americans have untreated tooth decay, you need to get regular checkups to make sure your mouth is healthy. The older you get, the more vulnerable you are to gum disease—up to about 25% of adults over age 65 have it. And if you smoke or drink heavily, you have an increased risk for oral cancer. Your oral health can affect your well-being throughout your life—and oral symptoms can indicate conditions elsewhere in your body--so make sure you visit your dentist every six months.
7. Nephrologist
Millions of people have chronic kidney disease and don’t realize it. If you have risk factors, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, visit a nephrologist to screen for the disease. There’s no cure for kidney disease, and it can lead to kidney failure, so detecting it early can save your life.
8. Eye Doctor
Optometrists can perform vision tests and eye exams and, in certain states, they may also prescribe medication for some eye diseases. But eye problems can go beyond poor vision. If you have a more serious issue, an optometrist might refer you to an ophthalmologist, who is a medical doctor. He or she can treat all eye diseases and perform surgery if needed, as well as diagnose and correct vision problems. If you think you have a more serious problem than just poor vision, schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist.
9. Psychologist
Even if you don’t have a severe mental health disorder, you might benefit from talking with a psychologist. As an expert in human behavior, a psychologist can help you work through all kinds of issues, such as relationship problems, eating disorders, substance addictions, or even just everyday stresses. If you have a family history of anxiety or depression, consider scheduling a chat with a psychologist to discuss your risk factors.
How to Find a Men’s Health Specialist Near Me
Having a regular physical, also known as a wellness exam, increases the chances of both preventing disease and detecting it early when treatment is much more effective. It’s important to feel comfortable with any health decision you make, so here are a few key things to keep in mind when looking for a men’s health specialist:
Find a Specialist Who Meets Your Needs: There are three types of primary care physicians. Family Practice physicians treat patients of all ages. This might be a good choice if you have children and want your entire family to receive care from the same doctor. Internal Medicine physicians typically treat only adults. This is a good choice if you have multiple or chronic medical conditions. General Practice physicians are like Family Practice physicians. They can treat patients of any age or gender.
Find a Specialist With Whom You Are Comfortable: Having a good relationship with your men’s health specialist is important. After all, you want someone trustworthy and a good communicator. That’s why it’s good to meet with the doctor and his or her care team before making a decision.
Build a Relationship: Establishing an ongoing relationship with a men’s health specialist offers many benefits. Knowing your family and medical history helps your specialist better understand your symptoms and health concerns and perhaps make a more precise diagnosis. By monitoring your health over time, your doctor is better equipped to notice small changes that may be signs of a larger problem.
Do Not Forget Preventive Exams and Screenings: Be sure to talk to your doctor about scheduling regular health screenings, such as a colonoscopy and prostate tests. After the test results are received, your doctor can follow up and determine the best next course of action for your health. If you do need additional medical attention, your doctor can coordinate your care to the right medical specialist, and then actively monitor your health status.
Be Flexible: 61 percent of men said they would be more likely to have an annual physical if seeing the doctor was more convenient. If that’s the case for you, consider scheduling a telehealth visit, making an appointment outside of work hours, or attending a local health screening event.
Be Honest: The more your primary care Specialist knows about your health, the better they can take care of you. Yet 20 percent of men say they have not been completely honest with their doctor.
Do Not Wait Until Something Goes Wrong: Many people wait until the last minute or until something is wrong with their health before seeking help. That’s not the right move. A good rule of thumb is to seek help if your symptoms last more than two weeks.
Check Your Insurance: If you have health insurance, make sure your men’s health specialist is an in-network specialist with your plan.
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