Men’s Health Specialist

What is men’s health?

Men’s health is a branch of medicine that diagnoses and treats diseases and issues specific to men. It also provides preventive care, including screenings, immunizations, and nutritional education. 

Research shows that men are less likely than women to visit the doctor for routine checkups. As a result, they’re more susceptible to chronic conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.

Men’s health works to catch these and other potentially serious issues early on when they’re most responsive to treatment. Physical exams, laboratory tests, and preventive screenings can preserve your well-being for years to come.

What are common men's health problems?

It's important for men to be aware of health risks, especially as they start to age. Some of the most common health problems that affect men include:

• Heart disease
• Respiratory diseases, including COPD
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Low testosterone

Many of these conditions present few obvious symptoms, so it’s important to visit Dr. Cardenas regularly, even if you feel relatively healthy.

What is hormone replacement therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy can help men in a variety of ways. Since testosterone plays such an important role in many bodily functions, testosterone therapy can have multiple benefits including:

• Improved bone density
• Improved muscle mass
• Increased energy
• Reduced amount of body fat
• Improved red blood cell production

Hormone replacement therapy can also increase sperm production and reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED).

Who is a candidate for hormone replacement therapy?

Any man who is experiencing low testosterone or other hormonal imbalances can benefit from hormone replacement therapy. 

To determine if you qualify, Dr. Cardenas conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and if they interfere with your ability to work or exercise.

If these steps don’t provide enough information, Dr. Cardenas orders laboratory tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) and urinalysis. These screening procedures help Dr. Cardenas determine the type of hormonal imbalance you’re experiencing and assist him in designing a treatment plan.

How often do I need a men’s health appointment?

Dr. Cardenas recommends scheduling a men’s health appointment at least once a year. Many chronic conditions, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol, don’t present obvious symptoms. 

Regular visits to Dr. Cardenas can detect these and other issues in their early stages of development, resulting in better outcomes.

To schedule a men’s health appointment at the practice of Carlos Cardenas, MD, call the office or click the online booking tool.