If you’re like most men, you hate going to the doctor. “I’m fine,” you tell everyone. “I’m too busy for a doctor’s visit.”

(And if you have a man in your life, you’re familiar with the excuses: no time, no worries, maybe next year.)

However, no matter what reasons you have (or may hear), it’s important that men follow certain guidelines to stay healthy. And since September is Prostate Cancer Awareness month, this is a good place to start. Schedule a physical and talk to your doctor about any risk factors or symptoms you have.

Screenings

The following checkups play a key role in diagnosing problems early. Early detection leads to faster treatment, which is often the best route to recovery.

• Prostate: Depending on your age, at your annual physical each year, your doctor will check your prostate. This involves your doctor inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum and determining the size and shape of your prostate. If there is a cause for concern, he may also run a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

• Cholesterol: You can have your cholesterol checked through a simple blood test (usually after fasting overnight). A combined number over 200 can indicate that you need to alter your diet.

• Blood pressure: High blood pressure (more than 140/90) can indicate early heart disease. Talk to your doctor about ways to lower it if necessary.

• Colon: If you are over 50, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, your doctor may suggest a colonoscopy. This endoscopic test will check for polyps or other issues regarding your colon.

• Diabetes: Your doctor may test for diabetes if you have a family history of the disease or if you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol. You’ll have to fast overnight, drink a glucose mix, and have a blood test.

• Depression: If you frequently feel sad or are uninterested in daily activities, it may be more than just a bad mood. Talk to your doctor about being screened for depression. Remember that your mental health is as important as your physical health.

• HIV and sexually transmitted infections: Discuss your risk factors with your doctor to determine if you should be screened. If you test positive for any of these conditions, it is important to tell any current and past sexual partners so they can be tested as well.

Daily Habits

In order to stay healthy, there are some basic guidelines to follow. These will help you remain active, independent, and productive.

• Be tobacco-free: If you smoke, talk to your doctor about the best way to quit. And if you don’t smoke, don’t start. Tobacco use has been linked to lung cancer, emphysema, and other diseases.

• Watch your weight: Extra weight puts extra pressure on your heart and other organs, as well as on your joints. If you need to shed a few pounds, talk to your doctor about the best strategies. You will feel better and have more energy if you maintain a healthy weight.

• Eat right: It may go without saying, but eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is a great way to treat your body well. The vitamins and antioxidants in these foods guard against cancer and other diseases, and the fiber will keep your digestive system in running smoothly.

• Keep moving: Experts recommend that you try to exercise most days of the week, for at least 45 minutes each time. Regular exercise keeps your blood pressure in check, helps you lose weight, and can improve your mood.

• Drink in moderation: If you choose to drink alcohol, be sure to limit your intake to no more than two drinks a day. (And, no, you can’t save all 14 for the weekend.)

To learn more about men’s health issues, contact Plantation General Hospital. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-866-442-2362. We can help make each day a healthy one.

SOURCES
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
National Health Information Center