What is a men’s annual exam (and do men need one every year)?

Research shows that men tend to put off going to the doctor until a serious health issue arises. But staying healthy means more than addressing problems as they come. It also means preventing health conditions like heart disease and cancer before they begin. That’s where a men’s annual exam can make a huge difference.

At Ironwood Family Practice, we recommend men’s annual exams starting at age 18. Our providers help men in Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding communities catch potential health issues early and offer practical advice to support your physical, mental and sexual health. Whenever you’re ready, we’re here to help you take an active role in living a healthier life.

Why is a men’s annual exam important?

For men in North Idaho, getting an annual physical brings many benefits, including:

Seeing the unseen. Men often won’t see or feel the early signs of health conditions like elevated cholesterol or high blood pressure, both of which can lead to heart disease. During a men’s annual exam, your doctor will check your LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), triglycerides and blood pressure, and take action should you need to lower them.

Discussing topics that matter most to you. Some men may find it difficult to talk about things that are on their mind, including mental health, hair loss, or sexual health concerns. At Ironwood Family Practice, our doctors are men’s health experts who will talk with you in a confidential setting and help you find personalized solutions to your concerns.

Feeling stronger as you age. Men face different challenges at each stage of their lives. When you commit to annual physicals at Ironwood Family Practice, you will get expert advice to help you navigate what’s next, so you can enjoy the things you love to do for as long as possible.

What to expect during a men’s annual checkup

Men’s wellness exams follow a specific process, although yours may be slightly different based on your age and overall health status. Most exams will include these five items:

1. Physical exam

When you meet with us, we’ll measure your height, weight, temperature, blood pressure and body mass index (BMI). Next, our men’s health primary care providers will discuss your personal and family medical history. At this time, you can also tell your provider about any new health concerns that may have developed since your last trip to the doctor’s office.

Your provider will then perform a comprehensive physical exam, including checking your ear, nose, throat and reflexes. Using a stethoscope, your doctor will also check your heart rate and respiratory rate. Plus, you’ll receive a visual skin exam for any sores or rashes that could indicate an infection. And your provider will check for hernias.

2. Health screenings

During a men’s annual exam, your doctor will perform the most appropriate screenings based on your age. These tests can help you identify potential red flags of escalating health problems. Your provider will order blood tests to measure your cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels and assess your risk for heart disease or diabetes. If you’re sexually active, you also may receive an order for a urine test to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Younger men may benefit from an exam for testicular cancer, a very treatable condition that can occur in men ages 15 – 35. Additionally, men ages 55 and older may benefit from a prostate cancer screening. This can be done either through a blood test (called a prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, test) or a digital rectal exam using gloved fingers. You may also receive a doctor’s order for a colonoscopy that can help detect and treat colon cancer early. Ironwood Family Practice follows American Cancer Society guidelines that recommend most men get their first colonoscopy at age 45.

3. Vaccines or boosters

Your provider will discuss your immunization schedule with you. You may request to have a seasonal flu vaccine or a booster for conditions like COVID-19, tetanus, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) or varicella (chickenpox). Older men may choose to receive a pneumonia vaccine or an RSV vaccine during a men’s annual exam based on their risk factors.

4. Mental health screening

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. That’s why we encourage men to talk with us about their moods, energy levels, and social relationships. We’ll listen to you and offer our best professional recommendations on how to enhance your psychological health and boost your mental resistance.

5. Education and counseling

Whether you’re trying to lose a few pounds, stay physically fit, or just want to eat better, we can help. A men’s annual exam is your chance to ask your provider any questions you have about living your best life, including questions about lifestyle habits like diet and exercise.

We also provide a confidential setting. Feel free to ask us about difficult subjects, such as sexual health concerns, male infertility or male birth control options, so we can help you find answers.

Why choose Ironwood Family Practice for your men’s annual exam in North Idaho

When it comes to preventive care for men, you can trust Ironwood Family Practice in Coeur d’Alene. We provide premium care for you and everyone in your family. Here, you’ll find: