Sexual health is greatly dependent on general health

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When struggling to achieve and maintain an erection, many men can benefit from simply developing a healthier lifestyle, especially later in life. Testosterone production can also be improved by better health habits. The Alabama Men’s Clinic specializes in treatments such as performance and testosterone boosters, but we cannot overemphasize the importance of general health. As we’ve said many times, “sex matters” to every man and woman healthy enough for sex. Overall health, however, matters to an equal extent—if not even more so.

The following guidelines can help you to take control of your overall health.

  • Physical Activity: Invest 30 minutes a day in physical activities such as biking, jogging, hiking, or a similar exercise of your choice. For some men, 60 minutes of exercise for four days a week is also an effective schedule. It is a good idea to consult with your physician about exercise programs before getting started.
  • Healthy Weight: Ideally, you should try to keep the number of calories you eat consistent with the number that you are burning off. Portioning your food can certainly help with this. We can screen your BMI (body mass index) at the clinic, so you can track progress towards your personal weight goals.
  • Healthy Diet: Maintain a healthier diet consisting of foods such as meat proteins (i.e. chicken and fish), eggs, vegetables, fruits, beans, tofu, lentils, and grains. Reduce your intake of saturated fats and pay attention to your calorie intake. It cannot be overstated that sexual health is greatly determined by general health.
  • Balance Stress: General health can be severely affected by elevated stress levels. In fact, there are many cases of ED that are caused entirely by stress. Men afflicted by PTSD, for example, frequently struggle with sexual health issues as a result. It can be helpful to seek out the help of a mental health professional to discuss your stress.
  • Stop Smoking: The first step to quitting smoking is to consult with your doctor. Various medications and counselling options are available to help you adjust. Seek out support to encourage you along the way. Regular smokers are much more likely to develop (or worsen) ED (erectile dysfunction).
  • Drink Alcohol in Moderation: Drinking more than two alcoholic beverages a day can significantly impact overall health. The following are examples of a typical drink: a 5-ounce glass of wine, 1-ounce of spirits, a 12-ounce beer, etc.
  • Sleep Well: About 6-8 hours of sleep per night is a good goal.

Screenings:

When working to maintain your overall health and manage any issues that might arise, it is important to receive regular input from your doctor or a specialist. Adhering to the list of guidelines above can help to manage your personal, day-to-day health. However, it is always beneficial to speak with your doctor or a specialist to personalize these guidelines based upon your unique situation. Various health conditions can alter your need for screening.

As always, we want to be a resource for you as you seek out professional help for any issues. Ask your provider or patient coordinator, and we will help you find the answers that you need.

 

Exams & Screenings When Ages
18-39 40-49 50+
Physical Exam: Review past and current health conditions, complete a thorough physical exam, and review health-related topics. Yearly x x x
Blood Pressure: High blood pressure has no symptoms, but can cause permanent health concerns (heart attack, stroke, organ damage). Yearly x x x
Blood Tests & Urinalysis: Screens for various diseases (such as cholesterol, diabetes, Kidney or Thyroid dysfunction) before symptoms occur. Yearly x x x
EKG: Electrocardiogram screens for heart abnormalities. Echocardiogram and/or stress test as follow-up when directed. Baseline Yearly Age 30 Age 40 x
Prostate Exam: Screening for prostate cancer should include rectal exam and PSA blood test. Prostate cancer is the number one cancer in men. Yearly x
Colonscopy: A flexible scope examines the colon for cancer, polyps, and other diseases at their earlier and treatable stages. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in men. Every 3-7 Years x
Self-Exams:
Testicle: To find masses in their earliest stages.
Skin: To look for signs of changes and early skin cancer.
Oral: To look for signs of lesions in the mouth.
Breast: To find abnormal masses in their earliest stages.
Monthly x x x
Testosterone Screening: Low testosterone symptoms include low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue and depression. Initial screening for symptoms with a questionnaire followed by a simple blood test. Yearly x x x
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Sexually active adults who consider themselves at risk for STDs should be screened for Syphillis, Chlamydia, and other STDs. At Risk x x x
Immunization Review: Childhood vaccinations, TB skin test, tetanus booster, Hep A/B, and Flu/Pneumonia. Yearly x x x
BMI: Body mass index. Obesity is a direct cause of major health issues. Maintaining a normal BMI, eating a balanced diet, and a good exercise program are all major components to overall health. Yearly x x x
Smoking Cessation: Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in men and the number one cause of cancer-related death in men. At Risk x x x
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Alabama Men's Clinic of Birmingham

  • (205) 598-7000
  • info@alabamamensclinic.com
  • 1 Independence Plaza Suite 130
  • Homewood, AL 35209
  • Mon – Fri: 9am – 5pm
  • (Closed Sat & Sun)
  • Walk-ins Welcome

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