The problems that don’t hurt
High blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes often cause no symptoms for years. By the time they do, they may already have affected the heart, kidneys or eyes. That’s the main reason for a checkup when you feel fine: these are simple to check, and easier to deal with when they’re found early.
What a men’s checkup covers
- Blood pressure, compared with your past readings
- Blood work for cholesterol and blood sugar, drawn here when it’s due
- Weight, and what it means for your heart and joints
- An honest look at smoking, alcohol, sleep and activity, without a lecture
- Cancer screenings recommended for your age, and a straight conversation about which ones make sense for you
Heart health
Heart risk builds quietly, from blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, smoking and family history. Knowing your numbers lets you and your doctor decide together whether anything needs to change. If your doctor wants a closer look, an EKG can be done in the clinic.
Small, steady changes, such as walking more, cutting back on salt or alcohol, or stopping smoking, often move the numbers in the right direction. When they aren’t enough on their own, medicines can help, and your doctor will talk you through the options.
Questions men put off
Snoring, poor sleep, low mood, changes in how often you urinate, or problems with sex can all have medical causes, and some are early signs of conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. They’re ordinary questions in a doctor’s office, so bring them up.
Your family history counts
If your father or brother had a heart attack or stroke at a younger age, or a close relative had colon or prostate cancer, tell us. Family history can change when screenings start and how closely your numbers are watched.
Fitting it in
We’re open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. If you’re already coming in for something else, such as a work physical or a sprain, ask whether it’s a good time to check your numbers as well.
Most major plans are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid, and self-pay patients are welcome. Look up your plan before you book.
Bring to your checkup
- Any recent blood pressure readings from home or a pharmacy
- A list of your medicines and supplements, including anything you take for training
- Family history of heart attack, stroke, diabetes or cancer, and the ages it happened
- Your ID and insurance card
- The questions you’ve been meaning to ask
Common questions
How often should men get a checkup?
It depends on your age, your health and your family history. Many adults do well with a yearly visit, and more often if a condition is being treated. Your doctor will suggest a schedule that fits you.
When should men start checking cholesterol and blood pressure?
Earlier than most men think. Blood pressure should be checked regularly throughout adult life, and cholesterol testing usually begins in early adulthood, more often if you have risk factors. Ask at your next visit when yours is due.
Should I get screened for prostate cancer?
It’s a decision to make with your doctor, based on your age, family history and your own preferences. Current guidance favors talking it through rather than testing every man automatically.
