Men’s Health

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men.

Fortunately in the majority of men with prostate symptoms, the cause is non-cancerous, but due to the prostate gland increasing in size and thus obstructing urine flow. There are medications available which can ease these symptoms considerably.

 

Early symptoms of prostate cancer are varied and unspecific but can include:

1 – Having to urgently rush to the toilet to pass urine.

2 – Difficulty in passing urine, slow to begin and reduced stream flow strength.

3 – Passing urine more frequently, especially at night, disturbing sleep.

4 – Blood in urine or semen (rare)

 

We can perform a painless physical examination [DRE] and prostate specific antigen [PSA] blood tests which may detect prostate cancer at an early stage when it is easily treated. A PSA blood test is also a good indicator of any inflammation of the prostate. This blood test should be performed as a baseline from age 50, or 40 if there is a family history of prostate cancer. It is advisable that it is repeated annually, so that the trend of risk can be followed over time. If you are interested in having this test, please avoid ejaculation for 48 hours prior to attendance.

We can then organise specialist referrals to consultant urologists for further investigation with ultrasound and biopsy if clinically indicated.

Cancer of the testicles usually affects young men between 20 to 55 years of age.

The most common symptom of this disease is a painless lump or swelling in the testicles, sometimes an ache in the scrotum or a feeling of discomfort may also be a sign. However there are several other causes of testicular lumps and symptoms of testicular discomfort, most of which are benign.

Men should check their testicles regularly for lumps. If you notice a lump you should always be examined especially as they share symptoms with testicular cancer, which can be treated simply if detected early, so it’s important not to ignore your symptoms.

Don’t feel embarrassed about getting checked out, our doctors are experienced professionals, clinical examination and referral for ultrasound if clinically indicated are quick and painless procedures.

Erectile dysfunction is a very common condition; approximately 50% of all men aged between 40 and 70 will experience erectile dysfunction at some point.

Erectile dysfunction can be indicative of an underlying health problem and it is therefore important to have it investigated thoroughly.

There are a number of main types of conditions that can cause problems resulting in erectile dysfunction:

Conditions that affect the flow of blood to your penis. Erectile dysfunction is strongly linked to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

Conditions that cause disruption of nerve signals. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by diabetes

Conditions that disrupt your hormone levels. These include an over or under active thyroid as well as Cushing’s syndrome, which affects the production of cortisol.

Problems with the physical structure of your penis

Psychological problems such as stress, anxiety, relationship problems or depression

If you are taking certain medicines, these can cause erectile dysfunction so you should discuss any current medications with the doctor when you attend our clinic.

Excessive alcohol intake or drug use can also cause erectile dysfunction

New medications have revolutionised the treatment of this problem which has a negative effect on self-worth and self-confidence. The team at Oakwood will be happy to discuss such medications with you. In some cases, psychosexual counselling may be recommended, and in other more complex case, we may recommend referral onto a specialist.

Fertility Screening

One in six couples can be affected with a fertility issue preventing conception. In men, the most common cause is lack of sperm or low sperm motility

A full assessment and relevant tests to help you check all is well before you begin trying for a baby can clarify what if any problems there are and how best to treat them.

There are a number of useful tests that can be conducted including: Full blood profile; Hormone levels; Vitamin D and vitamin B12 levels; as well as Semen analysis.

Where there are abnormalities, we can recommend a suitable specialist referral.

Vasectomy Counselling

This is still an important choice for men, but it is important to consider all of the implications. Talk to our experienced doctors about your options.

You should always consider being tested after having unprotected sexual intercourse, whether or not you have any obvious symptoms. In many cases the infection is not accompanied by any symptoms or signs until a later stage.

Our experienced doctors are available to confidentially discuss potentially risky circumstances you have been exposed to; and advise on any necessary action to take.

We would always recommend the use of condoms, not just for contraception, but as they also protect against the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

Getting tested for infections will allow detection at an early stage and prevent them from developing into more serious threat to your health or the health of your partner.

Most sexual health infections can be simply and appropriately treated with antibiotics.

International Men’s Health Week always begins on the Monday before Father’s Day and ends on Father’s Day itself.

 

The Movember Foundation is a global charity committed to men living happier, healthier, longer lives.

 

http://www.cancer.ie/publications/reduce-your-risk#men

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