Men's Health Specialist
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Robert L. Stephenson, M.D.
Internal Medicine Physician located in Encinitas, CA
Men are more likely than women to put off going to the doctor or avoid annual checkups altogether. Robert L. Stephenson, MD, encourages all men to make and keep their appointments and offers customized men’s health services at his practice in Encinitas, California. Whether you have symptoms of an enlarged prostate, erectile dysfunction, or are due for an annual physical, call Dr. Stephenson or schedule an appointment online today.
Men's Health Q & A
What are common men’s health issues?
Men are more likely than women to suffer from a variety of health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis. In addition to these common health problems that can affect anyone, men are also at risk of several male-specific conditions.
Prostate cancer
After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed type of cancer in America. Around 165,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, but when the disease is caught and treated, survival rates are also very high. Prostate cancer doesn’t necessarily cause symptoms, so having screenings is critical to protecting your health.
Enlarged prostate
An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a widespread men’s health issue. Men over the age of 50 have a 50% chance of developing the condition and the risk increases to 90% for men aged 80 or older. If you have an enlarged prostate, you may experience symptoms including reduced urine streams, trouble emptying your bladder completely, and erectile dysfunction.
Erectile dysfunction
Almost every man experiences an occasional issue with achieving or maintaining an erection. However, if you consistently have trouble, and it’s interfering with your well-being and relationships, you should talk to Dr. Stephenson. In many cases, simple lifestyle modifications can reduce your symptoms and improve your sexual performance.
When should I start having prostate cancer screenings?
Regardless of risk and family medical history, you should start to have prostate cancer screenings including blood tests to measure your PSA levels and digital exams to check for abnormalities in your prostate by the time you turn 50 years old. However, if you have a personal or family history of prostate cancer, you should start having screenings earlier. Dr. Stephenson can provide customized advice to protect your health. Prostate cancer, like many other types of cancer, doesn’t necessarily cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
Why should I have annual physical exams?
While taking time out of your busy schedule for an annual exam may be low on your list of priorities, especially if you’re healthy, having a yearly physical provides an opportunity to have essential health screenings that can help Dr. Stephenson diagnose health conditions before they disrupt your wellness. Whether you have signs of high blood pressure or increased blood sugar, when health conditions are caught and treated early, treatments are less invasive and can prevent your health from suffering.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephenson today by calling his practice or booking online.
