Wellness Tests Every Middle-Aged Man Should Take
Posted: April 8, 2019
When did you last get tested for things like diabetes, low testosterone, high cholesterol or prostate cancer? If you’re like many men, the answer is either “never” or far too many years ago. These kinds of tests can be useful in catching and treating a condition early on, before it develops into something more serious.
You can talk to your doctor about what tests are recommended when given your age, your own medical history and your family’s medical history. As men age, the type and frequency of necessary exams changes. However, here are some of the tests that all men over 50 should periodically have.
Blood or Saliva Tests
Men over 50 may not realize they are at risk for HIV, but their age group accounts for around 15 percent of new HIV infections annually. HIV can be detected with a blood test or saliva swab. Men should also have a blood sugar test for diabetes. A blood test can also check cholesterol levels, and this can help assess the risk of heart disease. Low testosterone can also be detected with a blood test. Some of these conditions can be treated with lifestyle changes. Testosterone replacement therapy may help men diagnosed with low T.
Screenings and Other Checkups
All men should have an annual physical that includes a blood pressure check. Screenings for prostate and testicular cancer may be among the most important for men over 50. A digital rectal exam or a PSA test can lead to the early detection of prostate cancer, and this can make treatment far more successful. Men can also do monthly self-exams for testicular cancer. Screenings for skin cancer, colon cancer and bone density should also be done. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and the U.S. Preventive Services Taskforce has recommended screening all adults for depression. While they may seem less critical, men should not neglect vision and hearing exams.
One issue with a number of the conditions that these tests check for is that the symptoms can be similar. For example, fatigue, depression and weight gain may indicate low testosterone or many other issues. Men who are experiencing these symptoms should see a medical professional even if they have recently had tests done. For information on these tests and on treatments such as testosterone replacement and more, contact Low T Center at 866-806-8235 and schedule your initial health assessment online.
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Disclaimer: This article is made available for general, entertainment and educational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Low T Center. You should always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.