Men’s HealthHouston, TX
Although men face many of the same health issues as women — including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes — there are specific conditions or factors of these conditions that only apply to men. In some cases, men may not seek regular checkups as frequently as they should. We can help to address various factors of aging and men's health with professional treatment.
Many common men’s health issues can be improved or prevented with regular medical checkups and preventive care. Even without experiencing severe symptoms, forming a relationship with a trusted physician can help monitor risk factors before health problems start, prevent disease, and develop a wellness plan.
Men’s health services are available at Woodforest Pediatric & Family Clinic in Houston and the surrounding area. Call us at 713-453-4600 to schedule an appointment.
Importance of Men’s Health Treatment
Men are far more likely than women to skip routine health screenings. Regardless of gender, many people avoid seeing a doctor until symptoms become severe, if at all. However, there is a stereotype of men not needing a medical checkup and being able to wait out the symptoms. Both men and women should see their doctor at least once a year. Early detection and treatment can help prevent severe diseases and greatly benefit overall health in other ways.
Many common health conditions that people think of as inevitable are actually the result of diet and lifestyle factors. We can help to prevent these issues with medical treatment and recommended lifestyle changes. Our team can identify and monitor risk factors while assisting patients to establish healthy habits such as proper diet and regular exercise.
Conditions that Affect Men’s Health
Heart Disease
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in American men, responsible for roughly one in every four male deaths. Half of the men who die from coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms.
Many risk factors for heart disease can be controlled with diet and lifestyle changes. A sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, excessive alcohol use, high blood pressure, smoking, high stress levels, and being overweight can all increase the risk of heart disease. Our team can help patients develop a treatment plan to improve health in these areas.
Low Testosterone
Low levels of this important hormone can cause symptoms such as:
- Insomnia
- Low sex drive
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Changes in mood
Many people tend to think of low testosterone levels as a normal part of aging but it can actually affect men of all ages. A blood test can evaluate testosterone levels and help determine if treatment is needed.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a common condition that can increase the risk of heart disease. High blood pressure may not cause any symptoms, and people can have it for years without being aware. Risk factors for high blood pressure include smoking, being overweight, eating too much salt, excess stress, and not exercising enough.
Certain Cancers
Lung cancer is the second-most common cancer among both men and women. However, for men, prostate cancer is more common. According to the American Cancer Society, one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in his life. However, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women.
Most people diagnosed with lung cancer are 65 or older. Smokers have the greatest risk of lung cancer, but even people who have never smoked can get lung cancer. We can help to determine if there are signs of lung cancer before recommending the type of treatment the patient needs.
Benefits of Seeing a Men’s Health Provider
An annual physical with a doctor will check critical vital signs such as blood pressure, weight, and heart rate. Our team may conduct a heart exam and a lung exam to check for any abnormalities. An annual physical exam for men may also include a testicular exam and a prostate exam. If our team identifies a risk of any serious health conditions, they will develop a custom treatment plan based on the patient's medical history, risk factors, and lifestyle factors.
This may include recommendations for proper diet and exercise, along with other interventions such as stress management. Depending on the severity of the risk factors and the extent of the treatment plan, our team may recommend regular follow-up appointments to make sure that health is improving.
Call Us Today
Taking control of your health and adopting healthier habits can often seem overwhelming. With our doctor’s help, you can make the necessary changes that can have a significant impact on your overall health, quality of life, and life expectancy.
Call us at 713-453-4600 to schedule an appointment and learn more about your path to better health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do men die younger than women?
Men and women often face the same health issues, but men tend to experience certain issues at a younger age. Combined with the fact that men are less likely to go to the doctor for preventive care, this can lead to a greater risk of early death. Men also tend to take more risks and live less healthy lifestyles.
What can I do to prevent disease?
A healthy lifestyle goes a long way to reduce your risk of disease. By eating healthier foods, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking, there is a higher chance of preventing specific health issues. However, if you begin to notice symptoms or health problems, lifestyle changes may not be enough.
How can men manage stress?
Managing stress is important for your overall health. Some stress is normal. If you feel that you are under constant stress, it is important to exercise, get enough sleep, set limits, and seek professional help if necessary. We can help to recommend lifestyle changes and other options to help you cope with your stress.
What are the nutrition guidelines for men?
Men and women can both reduce their risk of disease and manage their weight by following a healthy diet. Eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and clean protein. Limit processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugar in all forms. Also, limit unhealthy fats such as trans fats and vegetable oils. Instead, choose healthy fats such as olive oil and fatty fish.
How does being inactive lead to health problems for men?
Many Americans spend much of their time sitting at a desk or on the couch. This type of sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and depression. Even moderate physical activity, such as taking a brisk walk for 30 minutes, can help reduce your risk of these health issues.
Contact Us
Woodforest Pediatric & Family Clinic is located at
13018 WoodForest Blvd Suite A
Houston, TX
77015