Men’s Clinic
Introducing the Men’s Clinic at the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine
SERVICES
The Men’s Clinic at Akasha serves the healthcare needs of all men during each phase of their life. We utilize advanced diagnostic testing along with evidence-based natural therapies, in conjunction with conventional medicine, to treat disease and to prevent future problems. Below is a list of a few common conditions frequently seen at the Men’s Clinic.
- Annual Exam and Physical
At this 45-minute appointment, our doctors perform a thorough physical exam and will take the time to answer any questions. It is the goal of the Men’s Clinic to make this a complete, comfortable and empowering experience.
- Low testosterone / Hypogonadism
Testosterone is the primary male hormone and is vital for energy, feelings of well-being and libido. Levels of testosterone decline with age starting at age 35 and are lowered in men with many chronic health issues such as high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, and HIV disease. Low testosterone can contribute to osteoporosis and problems with the cardiovascular system, as hormones have important effects throughout the body. There are safe and natural ways to increase testosterone levels, leading to profound improvements in your quality of life, mood, sexual interest and performance.
- Chronic prostatitis and other prostate disorders
Prostatitis is an infection of the prostate gland that can frequently go undetected, yet can contribute to ill health including pain and erectile dysfunction. Other prostate issues including benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) and prostate cancer are common and important that they be detected and treated. The Men’s Clinic at Akasha will educate you on symptoms to watch for and perform testing to be sure there are no prostate related issues requiring treatment.
- Male menopause
Male menopause, or andropause, refers to a drop in hormone levels as men age. While there is some debate about it, more and more studies are backing up the prevalence of physical and emotional changes in men as they age as a result of changes in hormone levels. See the April 2005 Issue of the Akasha Center Newsletter for more information on this common problem in men in their 40s and 50s. At Akasha, we feel that each man should be evaluated individually with a through exam, assessing the man’s overall well-being. Whether or not you believe in male menopause, some men do note a lower sense of well-being or vigor as they go through mid-life. At Akasha, we recognize this and work to treat whatever conditions contribute to this loss of quality of life.
- Low libido
Low libido is a common problem found in men. This can be due to physical factors, stress, nutritional issues or the presence of chronic medical conditions. Libido is important for a sense of well-being and because sex is an important way to achieve intimacy and fulfillment in general. The Men’s Clinic at Akasha will work with you to identify the underlying issues causing lowered libido and to address them with you.
- Depression
Male depression is a serious condition that is frequently undiagnosed. Depression can be triggered by financial stress, relationship issues or even changes in the seasons. Many men feel they should just be able to “deal with it” on their own, so don’t recognize the problem or seek help. This can lead to serious consequences and obviously impact a man’s entire sense of well-being. Depression does affect physical health. It causes the stress system to stay activated which can damage the heart and generally leads to careless behavior. At Akasha we have a specific team including psychotherapists and medical doctors who will work together to identify and treat mild or major depression with or without western medications.
- Cardiovascular disease
Men are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease than women. Risk factors include poor diet, being overweight, family history of heart disease or stroke, hypertension, diabetes, HIV and age above 50. At the Akasha Men’s Clinic we use advanced testing to identify early signs of cardiovascular disease. We utilize evidence-based natural therapies as well as western medications to work with you to optimize your ability to prevent consequences such as heart attack or stroke.
- Anal Cancer
Men who have sex with men are at greater risk for anal cancer. Anal cancer is caused by the same virus that causes cervical cancer, and there are proven methods to screen for early pre-cancerous lesions. Every man who has a history of genital warts, of HIV or of having sex with men should be screened annually for such lesions, which can be easily treated if found early. Left unchecked, anal cancer can be disastrous. At the Men’s Clinic at Akasha, we utilize a more advanced technique than most, called anoscopy, to identify and treat even the earliest signs of anal cancer.
- Men’s Wellness Program
During your initial 60-minute consultation, our doctors listen to your specific health concerns, take a thorough health history and perform physical exams and laboratory tests in order to evaluate your current health and hormonal status. At your follow up appointment you will be provided with a personalized treatment plan that addresses both your current health concerns and provides the preventative strategies to optimize your health and wellness.
The Men’s Clinic at Akasha uses the following therapies:
- Allopathic medicine (western prescriptions, diagnostic imaging, hospitalization and/or co-management with specialists)
- Nutritional counseling promoting a Mediterranean diet to decrease inflammation and
reduce risk of cardiovascular disease
- Lifestyle modifications
- Detoxification
- Botanical Medicine
- Nutritional Supplements
- Homeopathy
- Psychotherapy
- Physical therapy and exercise counseling
- Physical Medicine: (including: Osteopathic assessment and manipulation;
- Craniosacral therapy; Massage; Reflexology)
- Traditional Chinese Medicine: Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs
- Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy