General Practice
Men's health checks
The handful of checks worth doing, and the symptoms men most often postpone.
4 min read
What it is
Men are statistically slower to see a doctor, and most of what we screen for causes no symptoms until it is advanced. A short check covering blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, weight and a conversation about smoking and alcohol picks up the majority of preventable risk. From the mid-forties, prostate health is worth a separate discussion.
What to look for
Passing urine more often at night, a weak stream, or difficulty starting
Chest tightness or breathlessness on exertion
Changes in a testicle: a lump, swelling or a heavy sensation
Persistent low mood, poor sleep or loss of interest
Sensible things to do at home
- Book a baseline check from age 40, or earlier with a family history
- Keep alcohol within low-risk limits and stop smoking
- Regular activity — it affects heart risk, weight, sleep and mood at once
When to see us
- Any testicular lump or change, at any age
- Urinary symptoms that are getting worse
- Chest pain on exertion — do not wait for it to pass
- To discuss prostate screening from your mid-forties
To book, phone the practice on 058 813 2777 or send us a message. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department or call 10177.