Recharge Mitchel Schwindt, M.D. | author | online courses | coaching | consulting

How Not To Partially Die
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Getting The Right Outcomeshttps://exponential.thinkific.com/
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Start your Heroic journey here: https://bit.ly/becomeHeroic
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Tales of an Angry Prostate
Understanding Prostate Conditions

Men’s prostate glands change as they age, and older men are more likely to face prostate-related health issues. The main problems include prostatitis (inflammation), BPH (enlarged prostate), and prostate cancer. Diagnosing these issues can be tough because they often show similar symptoms, like frequent urination or pain during urination. Additionally, early-stage prostate cancer usually doesn’t show any symptoms, making detection harder.
 Prostatitis Explained
Prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate, comes in various forms, such as acute bacterial, chronic bacterial, and chronic nonbacterial prostatitis. The nonbacterial type is most common, affecting many men with prostatitis symptoms.
Prostatitis can greatly affect a man's life, causing pain, sexual issues, and anxiety. Men often worry about having cancer or an infection, leading them to visit the doctor more frequently. 
Prostatitis can be caused by infections, certain diseases, or other unknown factors. It might be linked to other health issues like neurological diseases and previous infections. 
Diagnosing Prostatitis
For diagnosis, doctors might perform tests like urinalysis or exams to check for signs of infection or inflammation. Depending on the type of prostatitis, treatments vary from antibiotics to other medications aiming at relieving symptoms and fighting infection.
Treatment Options
Treating prostatitis depends on its cause and type. Antibiotics are commonly used, and the treatment duration might range from a few weeks to more than a month. Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis is trickier to manage, often requiring a combination of medications, like anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants, to ease the symptoms.
Different treatments may work for different people, and finding the right one can be a process of trial and error. Some practices, like certain relaxation exercises, might also help alleviate the symptoms.
 
Prostate conditions can significantly affect men’s lives, mainly due to the discomfort and uncertainty they bring. Understanding these conditions and their management options is essential for those affected, helping them make informed decisions and cope better with the challenges. Remember, a healthcare professional’s advice is crucial in diagnosing and treating these conditions effectively.

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ED Medication Differences
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 Understanding Late-Onset Hypogonadism in Men
As men age, their sex hormones, particularly testosterone, naturally decrease. This condition, often referred to as late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), can affect men differently than women experiencing menopause. It usually starts around the age of 30, reducing testosterone levels by 1% to 2% annually.
 Recognizing the Differences in Hypogonadism
Not all hypogonadism is the same. Young men can experience it due to issues like Klinefelter syndrome, resulting in testicular failure. However, in older men, it is primarily due to aging, and the testosterone levels don’t drop as dramatically.
 Key Questions
Several uncertainties surround LOH. For example, it's still unclear whether the symptoms are primarily due to aging or a direct result of lower testosterone levels. There's also debate around the benefits and risks of testosterone therapy in managing LOH.
 How Common is LOH?
The occurrence of LOH varies, with about 6% to 39% of men aged 30 and above being affected. The chances of experiencing LOH symptoms increase with age and are consistent across different racial and ethnic groups.
 Diagnosing LOH
Diagnosing LOH isn't straightforward. Doctors look for signs like decreased sexual desire, energy, and other related symptoms, along with measuring testosterone levels. The diagnosis might involve questionnaires that ask about symptoms related to aging and testosterone deficiency.
 Treatment Options
When it comes to treatment, testosterone therapy is common, but it comes with both benefits and risks. It can improve aspects like mood, sexual desire, and body composition, but may also pose risks such as heart issues and prostate complications. Treatment should be personalized, considering the individual’s symptoms and medical history.
 What to Expect in Treatment
Various forms of testosterone replacement therapies, like oral medications and skin patches, are available. Close monitoring is essential during treatment to observe the effectiveness and any potential side effects. Regular check-ups will involve evaluating testosterone levels and other essential health aspects like the prostate health.
 
LOH is a condition influenced by aging in men, affecting their hormone levels and overall well-being. Recognizing the symptoms, seeking professional diagnosis, and pursuing personalized treatment are crucial steps in managing this condition effectively.

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