Men's Health

What is men’s health?

Men’s health is an area of medicine that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating health concerns that commonly affect men. Some conditions are gender-specific, while others impact men more frequently than women.

Specializing in integrative medicine, Health North Family Medicine, LLC, provides comprehensive care for men’s health with a strong emphasis on prevention and early intervention. The providers have the necessary experience and training to care for men of all ages.

Why is men’s health important?

While men and women experience many of the same health concerns, they tend to approach health care differently. Studies show that men are far less likely to visit the doctor than women. As a result, they’re more vulnerable to advanced and life-threatening health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. 

Many of the health concerns that men face are preventable and treatable with early intervention. Routine visits to Health North Family Medicine, LLC, can protect your health as you age.

Which health concerns commonly affect men?

Many health concerns can affect men, including:

Prostate enlargement

The prostate is a small gland shaped like a walnut that sits in between the penis and bladder. It plays an important role in reproduction. The gland is responsible for making the fluid in semen. As you age, your prostate may grow, increasing your risk of urinary incontinence. 

An enlarged prostate also raises your risk of prostate cancer. That’s why routine prostate exams are essential for your overall health.

Andropause

Andropause occurs when your testosterone levels decline. This hormone imbalance can lead to changes in your physical, mental, and emotional health. Symptoms of andropause include loss of muscle mass, increased abdominal fat, low libido, and erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is an inability to achieve or maintain an erection. While some men experience erectile dysfunction during times of stress, high alcohol consumption, or relationship tension, it can also point to an underlying hormone imbalance.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are hardened deposits that can become stuck inside your urinary tract. Kidney stones can be extremely painful and are more common in men than women.

Heart disease

Heart disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the heart muscle and cardiovascular system. One of the most common types, coronary artery disease (CAD), occurs when fatty deposits clog the arteries and impact blood flow. The condition affects men and women alike but is more common in men.

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis in which urate acid crystallizes in a joint, usually the big toe or knee. While gout can affect both sexes, it’s far more common in men.

To learn more about men’s health, call Health North Family Medicine, LLC, or schedule an appointment online today.