he purpose of a yearly physical is to keep small problems or potential problems from becoming serious threats to good health. Regular health assessments and testing allow a man to retain his general well-being. Eating right and staying active are very important in maintaining this health.
Many men avoid a yearly physical claiming that they are too busy to bother or that the visits are a waste of time. Some view regular doctor appointments as a feminine trait, thinking that women "run off the to doctor for every little thing". Hiding behind a tough man attitude about regular checkups is precisely why so many men are dying of illnesses that could be prevented or treated successfully if detected early.
Occasionally a man will fear what might be found on a physical exam. It is best to remember that the earlier a problem is detected, the better the chances for returning to good health.
Modern big business has learned the importance of protecting good health. Many companies insist that their upper management receive yearly physicals. Preserving good health prevents loss of time at work or the loss of an employee to poor health.
If a man does not have a regular physician, he should not hesitate to ask around. Most people are eager to recommend a good doctor or warn against a poor one. It is easier to deal with embarrassing health issues if someone is already familiar with their physician. All doctors practice confidentiality so, during an exam is the time to bring up any potentially embarrassing questions or conditions.
Many medical authorities suggest a yearly physical for every man. Others suggest a minimum of every three years. At ages 20-39 a healthy male should have a physical exam and laboratory tests at least every 3 years. At ages 40-50 a physical should be performed every year or two. After age 50 it should be yearly.
A physical should include checks of blood pressure, cholesterol, heart and lung function, measurements of height and weight, strength testing and genitalia. Blood and urine should be collected for a variety of tests including glucose, thyroid, kidney and liver function. A physician should also be collecting information on the patient’s perception of his general health and well-being and should be available for any questions posed by the patient.
Farsightedness and glaucoma are more common after age 45. An optometrist should be seen yearly. It there are any problems or a family history of diabetes or glaucoma, an ophthalmologist should be consulted.
There is difficulty in self-detection of hearing loss; it is not just a vanity issue. Hearing loss increases after age 50. Indications of hearing loss are straining to hear and turning up the volume of the television or radio to a volume that others complain is too loud. Many hearing problems can be corrected without using hearing aids.
Dental checkups should occur once or twice a year. Regular dental visits should include cleaning, x-rays, and physical assessments by a dentist or hygienist Dental assessments can point out the need for fillings or simply better oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) to prevent a myriad of potential future problems. This is important in the prevention of gum disease and the detection of oral cancer. As with all cancers, early detection is essential.
High blood pressure is more common in men over age 45. Proper eating habits and regular exercise help reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Too much cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Middle age is the time men encounter a rise in cholesterol. Eating properly will help in the control of cholesterol. Prescription medications are helpful in stubborn cases. Cholesterol, both total and HDL should be tested at least every five years along with triglyceride levels
Men should undergo a blood sugar test when they reach middle age or have a family history of diabetes. There is a higher incidence of diabetes in Hispanics, Native Americans and African Americans. Doctors can advise on a course of treatment.
A fecal occult blood test for colorectal cancer should be done every year after age 40. A digital rectal exam and a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test should be performed every three years.
During a physical a doctor can check for several common cancers. Men should pay special attention to oral, colon, prostate and skin anomalies. The exams can be uncomfortable and embarrassing but it is better to discover health issues early and avoid expensive and/or debilitating conditions.
Gentlemen, even the rich and famous go to the doctor regularly. Find a doctor, speak honestly, do not minimize symptoms and get advice about a schedule of physical exams and preventative wellness behaviors.
References:
"It's Time to Be Manly", David Elmore, Vitality Digest, Feb-Mar, 2002, pg 22.
"Why Men Avoid the Doctor", Sally Lindholm, Vitality Digest, Jun-Jul, 2002, pg 20
