A Quick Guide To Getting Your Men's Health Problems Solved

Sadly the statistics are that men are more likely to wait to see a doctor until a problem has developed. Often many of these problems are highly preventable and can be easily detected with a regular men's health checkup.

Today's post is to create a guide on how often men should consider getting a health review with their doctor as well as what to expect when they see their doctor. I hope that by even just a simple annual visit many men can lead healthy lives well into their older ages.

How Often Should A Man Get A Checkup?

For all guys I recommend getting an annual check up. It's a great chance to have a chat, get a skin check, check blood pressure and help ensure you are heading on the straight and narrow.

These annual visits are a perfect time to discuss any problems that may be worrying you as well as help identify any potential future problems. These can include checking for family history of different cancers, prostate issues, smoking and alcohol intake and perhaps other substances.

Some guys may be suffering with erectile dysfunction. Your doctor will be able to talk with you about common causes of ED.

I like to recommend a set of screening bloods to help check cholesterol, blood sugars, kidney, liver and other electrolytes.

For guys who are sexually active this is also a great chance to talk about sexual health screening and sexual dysfunction.

How Often Should A Man Have A Sexual Health Screening?

For all sexually active guys I recommend having a full sexual health screening every year. If you've had more than 10 sexual partners in 6 months it's best to get it done every 6 months or even sooner if you've had a lot of action.

If you have any symptoms like rash, discharge from the penis, ulcers, sores, lumps or pain with passing urine it's best to see your doctor straight away.

Sexual health check ups involve a chat about what's been happening, examining and addressing any issues that have shown up as well as screening tests such as:

• urine test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea
• blood test for HIV and syphilis

For men who sometimes have sex with other guys there is some additional swabs of the throat and anus if required.

What To Expect In A Men's Health Exam

All health checkups start with a conversation. This is a great time to share any particular problems you may be concerned about. If you have a couple of problems you are concerned about it's good to have a bit of a list so you won't forget anything.

It doesn't always have to be about problems, if you have any questions about healthier living this is a great opportunity to have your questions answered.

After this I like to check blood pressure, ears and throat, heart and lungs, abdomen, testicles if required and check of the prostate if there are any concerns.

A men's health checkup is very straight forward and I recommend taking the time to look after your health on a regular basis.

Dr George Forgan-Smith

Era Health, Melbourne (03) 9944 6200

The Healthy Bear