A Dedicated & Proactive Approach to Men's Health Care

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2016

TAKE A MINUTE TO ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER RE-EVALUATION OF YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE AND A VISIT TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.

  1. TOO MUCH SUGAR?
  2. ARE YOU EXERCISING ENOUGH?
  3. SKIPPING BREAKFAST?
  4. TOO SEDENTARY?
  5. TOO MUCH CAFFEINE?
  6. DEHYDRATION?
  7. SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD)?
  8. VITAMIN DEFICIENCY – VIT. D AND B12?
  9. HORMONE ABNORMALITY – LOW TESTOSTERONE, ETC.?
  10. POOR POSTURE?
  11. SMART SNACKING?

MAN ALIVE TEAM

http://www.everydayhealth.com/news/reasons-you-have-no-energy/?pos=1&xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyLiving_20161113

The average life expectancy of men living in Portland, Oregon, is 75 years. The universal life expectancy for men has increased dramatically in the past 50 years. How long we live is important; however, our quality of life is as important. The costs of enjoying life to its fullest require an investment of time and effort through proactive health maintenance and disease prevention. Investing in your health will pay off, and it’s never too late to start.

Our bodies, like a vehicle, are intricate machines that need the proper attention and maintenance to operate optimally.  Like any machine, the body needs routine maintenance to make sure it lasts as long as possible while still functioning correctly. Exercising the body as it was intended and eating right will optimize its functions enhancing our overall ability to perform. How well do you take care of your car in comparison to yourself?  We know that when we provide the premium, scheduled maintenance to our vehicles, they are reliable and perform incredibly well.  Can you say the same about how you maintain yourself?

Our bodies battle illnesses and trauma on a regular basis. Taking care of our body requires scheduled maintenance and diagnostic work up in the form of health screenings.  This proactive approach helps detect abnormalities or illness at an early stage, thus increasing the potential for a cure and quick return to health. Learning to listen to the body’s universal warning signs and symptoms is similar to paying attention to the check engine light in your vehicle, neither should be ignored. Prevention and early detection is a man’s best insurance policy to a healthier and more fulfilling life.

A healthy life is not just being free of disease, but an opportunity to operate at our highest potential. Man Alive, LLC specializes in men’s health, helping optimize or fine-tune our body as we age.  During this aging process, most men express universal complaints, such as: decreased energy and cognitive function, difficulty recovering from a workout, low libido and lack of vitality, but it does not have to be that way. As we age, there is a physiologic change affecting the function of organs and glands within our bodies.  These changes sometimes alter our metabolic profile, primarily in the form of hormones.  These and other types of changes can be treated or fine-tuned by our qualified team of men’s health care experts. Call or schedule your appointment online with us today and start enjoying your future now!

Man Alive Clinic

360-984-5806

Vancouver WA and Portland OR Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Options

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem for many middle and older-aged men who are more likely to have certain medical and age-related conditions that are frequently related to ED. Approximately 30 million American men have ED, which can affect men of all ages, though it is not diagnosed in younger men as often. If you are suffering from erectile dysfunction, you can restore your sexual performance and begin to feel more like your old self with our modern ED treatment options. Man Alive Clinic offers the care you need to find the best treatment for your sexual health needs. We may even be able to offer same-day appointments at our Vancouver clinic. If you live in Portland, Oregon and suffer from erectile dysfunction it’s just a short drive across the bridge to help solve your ED issues today.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction in Portland OR and Vancouver WA Men

There is usually a physical cause behind erectile dysfunction but sometimes there can be a psychological component as well. Erectile dysfunction can cause feelings of insecurity or uncertainty that may worsen the problem initially caused by physical factors. Physical conditions related to ED include, but are not limited to low testosterone, diabetes, hypertension, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, and heart disease. Use of certain prescription medications, alcohol, or tobacco may also contribute to ED. Therefore, our health care provider may ask a series of questions about your daily habits and medical history when diagnosing ED. We will also evaluate the possibility of low testosterone and design a custom ED treatment plan accordingly.

Possible Treatment Options

Medication is often recommended for the treatment of ED, though there are several different medications available, and a number of factors will determine which is best for each patient. Below, you can get a closer look at the use of drug therapy in ED treatment along with some other treatment options that may be necessary depending on your individual needs.

  • Drug therapy – Prescription drugs such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis are all commonly prescribed for ED, but it is important to provide us with a list of any medications your currently on before use since nitrate-based drugs can cause negative interactions resulting in a sudden drop in blood pressure. Other health factors may be used to determine whether medications that improve response to sexual stimulation or those that trigger an automatic response are most appropriate. Certain natural over the counter supplements may also be recommended.
  • Injection therapy – Patients with ED may also consider injection therapy. TriMix, a mixture of three drugs—alprostadil, papaverine, and phentolamine—is administered according to a patient’s specific needs, as determined by our health care provider. It is available by prescription only and must be compounded at our selected pharmacy. Testosterone replacement therapy may also include injections.
  • Psychotherapy – For some men, psychotherapy can assist in the continued recovery from ED, since therapy will address the mental factors that contribute to this condition. Man Alive Clinic will offer recommendations at the time of treatment.

Man Alive Clinic can provide immediate relief for your ED along with a caring and knowledgeable team of men’s health care specialists. You can schedule your appointment online today or call our friendly staff to arrange the best time to come in and discuss your sexual health needs. (360) 984-5806

Did you know that long or short-term treatment with testosterone injections, creams or gels alone will result in halting or decreasing the production of one’s testosterone? Just because an individual is diagnosed with low testosterone doesn’t necessarily mean they can’t produce testosterone.  Many men have normal functioning testicles, however, the hormone signal from the pituitary gland, in the brain, that tells the testes to produce testosterone, may be malfunctioning. Allow Man Alive to help you regain testicular function with a safe and effective alternative to these traditional options.  You can take these medications by mouth a few times a week, and there is no need for injection. Call or Book now.

Man Alive Team.

Did you know testosterone injections, gels, creams or patches are not the best first-line treatment for Low T?

The following question may open your eyes to a new understanding of Low T treatment.

Would you rather rely on a manufactured or synthetic source of external testosterone, or safely increase the production of your own testosterone?

The choice is a no-brainer.  I would safely assume that the majority of us would like to preserve the function of our testosterone manufacturing plant (testicles) for as long as we can.

There are a few prescription medications that provide the opportunity for you to restore the function of your testicles and increase your own testosterone. These medications have been known to: prevent testicular shrinkage and in many cases increase the size of the genitalia and help some lose weight. These medications will also help us determine the type of low T you may be experiencing.

If you think your testosterone levels may be low, have been diagnosed with Low T or have been treated for an extended period with shots or cream, please contact us to discuss these safe and very effective treatment options. We are here to be Your Partner In Health!

Man Alive Team

Men near Portland Oregon have been asking what is low testosterone?

Testosterone is a male hormone made by the body, which helps maintain reproductive tissue, stimulates sperm production, maintain sexual function, increase muscle mass and maintain bone strength. Low testosterone (Low T) is defined as 300ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter) of total testosterone and less than 5 ng/dL of free testosterone. Free testosterone is the amount of hormone not bound to other proteins. Low T in men living around Portland Oregon can indicate androgen deficiency if it is accompanied by low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis or fracture, and two or more of the following symptoms: sleep disturbance, depressed mood, a lack of energy or diminished physical performance. The prevalence of low T increases with age and affects roughly 39% of men over the age of 40.

At Man Alive, we don’t settle for normal, we strive for optimal levels of testosterone!

Why do we experience low testosterone?

1. The testicles reduce or stop producing testosterone.
2. The pituitary gland near our brain stops producing hormones that stimulate the production of our own testosterone.
3. Elevated estrogen and certain proteins.
And how does that happen?
– trauma to the testicles or brain
– illness or infection
– tumor or cyst to the testicles or pituitary gland
– radiation therapy
– medications
– aging

Symptoms of Low T in Men Living near Portland Oregon?

A decrease in testosterone is a natural occurrence in aging men. New research suggests that one out of four men over the age of 30 have low testosterone levels. Below are some common symptoms men with low testosterone can experience:
Low Sex Drive: Testosterone plays a key role in a Portland man’s libido. Someone with low T will likely experience a drastic drop in the desire to have sex. Low T can also make it difficult to achieve an orgasm.
Erectile Dysfunction: Testosterone alone does not produce an erection, but it does stimulate receptors in the brain to produce nitric oxide- a molecule that helps trigger an erection.
Hair Loss: Balding is a natural part of the aging process for many men. Men suffering from low T can experience a loss of body and facial hair.
Fatigue and Lack of Energy: If you are experiencing a loss of interest in some of your favorite physical activities or are finding yourself tired all the time, despite getting plenty of sleep, you could be suffering from low T.
Loss of Muscle Mass: Testosterone is a major muscle-building hormone. When testosterone levels are low, muscle mass can deteriorate and strength levels can be compromised. The decline in muscle strength is one of the major symptoms that men often complain about who are suffering from low T.
Increase in Body Fat: As a result of a loss in muscle mass, men that suffer from low T can experience weight gain, often exhibited in the stomach area. This can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
A decrease in Bone Mass: The weakening of the bones also referred to as osteoporosis, can affect men with low testosterone. Men with low T can experience bone loss because of testosterone aids in the production and strengthening of bones. Older men, who have suffered from low T for years and have not undergone testosterone replacement therapy, can be at a higher risk for bone fractures, usually in the hip, feet, ribs, and wrists.
Mood Changes: Testosterone, while it drives a number of physical processes also boosts mood and mental capacity. Research has shown that men with low T are more likely to experience depression, irritability and lack of focus. Some men report trouble with memory and concentration, lower motivation and self-confidence.
Increased Sweating: Profuse sweating, even with low impact activities can indicate low testosterone levels.
Sleep Disturbances: Low testosterone can result in insomnia and other disturbances in sleep. Men often complain of not being able to get a good night’s rest and wake up feeling groggy the next day.

What is Andropause?

Andropause is oftentimes referred to as the “male menopause,” having superficial similarities to the menopause that affects women of a certain age. Both menopause and andropause are characterized by a drop in hormone levels; Estrogen in females, testosterone in males. But unlike menopause, where women see a drastic decrease in estrogen levels, the testosterone production in men decreases gradually and can span over decades. This gradual decrease can affect changes in mood and attitude, sex drive, and physical endurance.

Andropause is caused by a gradual decline in testosterone production and occurs from age 40 onwards in men. Between the ages of 50 and 70, some men report symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, general tiredness, mood changes, night sweats and even palpitations. In andropausal men, night sweats and palpitations can occur as a result of an overactive autonomic system in response to falling testosterone levels. Most Portland men attribute erectile dysfunction to be the most significant result of Andropause. Apart from erectile dysfunction, psychological changes can take place, too. Oftentimes andropausal men can suffer from nervousness, irritability and even depression.

Studies show that this decline in testosterone can put men at risk for other health problems such as heart disease and weak bones. Since all this happens at a time when many men begin to question their careers, accomplishments and overall direction in life, these factors can oftentimes be overlooked and linked to external conditions.

Potential benefits of testosterone therapy near Portland Oregon?
• Increase in energy
• Increase in sexual desire
• A decrease in irritability and depressed mood
• Improvement in cognitive function
• Increase in bone density

What are the potential health risks associated with Low T?

Low T not only affects your sexual health but your overall health. Adequate levels of testosterone help maintain reproductive tissues, energy levels, fat distribution, muscle mass and good bone health. Men with low T can experience bone loss because of testosterone aids in the production and strengthening of bones. Older men, who have suffered from low T for years and have not undergone testosterone replacement therapy, can be at a higher risk for bone fractures, usually in the hip, feet, ribs, and wrists. Men that suffer from low T can experience weight gain, which can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

How do I know if my testosterone is low?

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms associated with low T. You may feel as though you lack the energy you once had. Other symptoms can include a decrease in libido, loss of muscle mass, an increase in body fat, problems getting a good night’s sleep, a decrease in bone mass and mood changes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important you contact us to schedule an appointment with an experienced doctor in hormone replacement therapy around Portland Oregon to determine if you have low testosterone or if these symptoms are the result of another medical condition.

How do I qualify for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) if I live near Portland?

Our experienced team of doctors and medical professionals will review your medical history and give you a brief physical exam. A simple blood test will be done in our office, which will determine your testosterone levels.

Can men be too old for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?

There is no age limit for testosterone replacement therapy. However, with any medical procedure, your levels will need to be checked to determine if you are a good candidate for TRT.

All information provided is the result of our professional experience and personal opinions.
Call to Schedule an appointment.
360-984-5806

Did you know that there are 2 primary reasons we experience low testosterone?

  1. The first is called Primary Hypogonadism. This condition is due to testicular failure. Your testicles essentially stop or slow the production of testosterone. Like the Pancreas, the testicles are a hormone-producing organ and subject to malfunction. The pancreas produces insulin and when cells of the pancreas falter or fail, we experience a form of diabetes. The testicles are subject to the same type of dysfunction.
  2. The other is Secondary Hypogonadism. This is due to a hormone signal interruption from one of two hormone-producing glands in the brain. The Hypothalamus or Pituitary gland. These glands are responsible for producing hormones that stimulate the testicles to produce both testosterone and sperm.

How do we effectively test for or determine which type of Low T or Hypogonadism you may be dealing with?  YOU NEED MORE THAN JUST A TESTOSTERONE TEST!

Man Alive Team

All information provided is based on expert consensus and our professional experience.

Why Fee-for-service medicine is becoming popular:

  1. Reduced Cost!
  2. More Choice and Ownership in one’s own health care management.
  3. No insurance runaround regarding Pre-Existing Conditions.
  4. No waiting for Prior Authorization (insurance approval) regarding a treatment plan or medications.
  5. Patients know what they’re paying for. Full disclosure pricing. No Surprises!
  6. Enhanced patient-focused experience and customer service.
  7. Expedited and efficient health care delivery.
  8. Patients may choose their Health Care Providers.
  9. Patients with insurance also benefit!
  10. Insured patients may receive the same reduced rates.
  11. Patients may ask for a Health Insurance Claim Form (HCFA) or a bill after each visit. They can submit this form to their private insurance for either reimbursement or help pay down their deductible*.
  12. Flexible spending account (FSA or Health spending/saving accounts – HSA) offer even greater pre-tax savings opportunity. Combine with a major medical insurance policy for peace of mind.

Come on in for a visit.

Man Alive Team

*If a medical office bills your insurance for a service, supplies, etc., it is unlawful to submit an HCFA form or bill to your insurance carrier for reimbursement associated with that same service or encounter.

All information provided is based on our professional experience and personal opinion.

Natural ways to help reduce estrogen and improve testosterone levels:

  • Lose weight – More importantly, lose body fat. Excess body fat is linked to excess estrogen.
  • Short, intense exercise – 8 repetitions totaling a twenty-minute routine with strength training increases testosterone and reduces estrogen. Proceed with caution and under the direction of a medical professional!
  • Consume ZINC – Foods such as cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts), shellfish, lean meat, nuts, and beans.  These are shown to regulate estrogen and increase testosterone.
  • Avoid environmental estrogens – It’s impossible to avoid all environmental estrogens. However, avoiding meat products from animals raised with synthetic hormones is a right place to start. Plastic food wraps or food containers can leach estrogen into food. Shampoos and toiletries that contain parabens also include estrogens. Avoid these products when possible.
  • Reduce soy and flax products – Both are very high in phytoestrogens. Many scientists believe that foods containing these products increase estrogen levels.
  • Reduce or eliminate alcohol intake – Alcohol interferes with liver and kidney function, which in turn affects the body’s ability to regulate estrogen, testosterone and growth hormone.
  • Limit or eliminate sugar and processed foods from your diet; increase healthy fats – mono and polyunsaturated as well as healthy saturated fats; vitamin D supplementation up to 8,000 iu., daily; reduce stress (cortisol) and get a good night’s sleep.

Four oral supplements that help reduce estrogen and enhance testosterone levels:

  1. Zinc Orotate
  2. Resveratrol derived from grape skin.
  3. DIM
  4. Calcium-D-Glucarate

Continue reading “Effective ways to reduce estrogen and INCREASE TESTOSTERONE” »

There are a lot of questions, concerns, and confusion regarding HRT (hormone replacement therapy).  Some of these questions are: What types of HRT are there?  Is it safe?  Am I a candidate for treatment and how do I find out?  How, when and where do I start?

Two of the most common types of HRT that we sometimes don’t associate with hormone replacement is 1) Insulin for diabetes  2) Thyroid medication for thyroid gland abnormalities. Another well-known therapy is Estrogen and Progesterone used primarily as female hormone replacement.

Two forms of hormone replacement that have contributed to very positive and profound changes for many individuals:

  1. TRT (testosterone replacement therapy), used in both men and women.
  2. GHT (growth hormone therapy), also used in men and women.

Continue reading “Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Is it for me?” »

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