Ribera Healthcare Clinic

Products And Services

• Interventional Pain Management

  If you’re one of the more than 50 million Americans living with chronic pain, pain management services can minimize your symptoms, encourage mobility, and improve your quality of life. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Olga Lucero, MSN, FNP-C, offers various pain management services to people of all ages, including treatment for migraines, headaches, and musculoskeletal pain. To schedule your pain management appointment, call the office or book online today. Pain Management Q & A What is pain management? Pain management is a branch of health care focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing pain. Almost everyone will experience pain at some time during their life, either as the result of an accident or injury or due to an underlying health problem. Without proper treatment, pain can infiltrate every aspect of your life, making even simple activities like going for a walk or spending time with friends difficult. What are some common health problems that cause pain? At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, the team provides pain management services for various pain-causing problems, including: Headaches Migraines Automobile accidents Work injuries Sports-related injuries Muscle strains Degenerative changes to the spine The team also treats pain caused by underlying medical conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Are there different types of pain management? At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, the team offers several types of pain management, including: Joint injections A joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to temporarily relieve pain caused by arthritis, sports-related injuries, or general wear-and-tear. This type of pain management involves your Ribera Healthcare Clinic provider injecting a solution of corticosteroids and an anesthetic into one or more joints. Once the corticosteroids enter your body, they ease pain and inflammation, restoring your mobility. Joint injections aren’t a permanent treatment solution, but they can provide relief for several weeks or months at a time. Trigger point injections A trigger point injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to temporarily relieve pain caused by tight muscles or trigger points. When your muscles are unable to relax, they form painful knots. These knots make it difficult to move comfortably or perform routine tasks like lifting and reaching. A trigger point injection combines corticosteroids with an anesthetic medication like lidocaine. Once the solution enters a muscle, it causes them to relax. When your muscles relax, you experience less pain. PRP injections Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a type of regenerative medicine. This type of pain management is especially helpful in treating joint and musculoskeletal pain. PRP involves your Ribera Healthcare Clinic provider drawing a sample of your blood. Next, they place your blood in a machine called a centrifuge that separates your blood from your platelets. After isolating your platelets, your Ribera Healthcare Clinic provider injects the PRP solution into the area affected by pain, such as your lower back or knee. Once the PRP solution enters your body, it increases circulation to the injury site, triggering the production of new cells and tissue. What type of pain management is right for me? The type of pain management that’s right for you depends on your age, medical history, and treatment goals. Following a physical exam and a discussion of your symptoms, your Ribera Healthcare Clinic provider can develop a custom care plan to align with your needs. To schedule your pain management appointment at Ribera Healthcare Clinic, call the office or book online today.

  Link: Interventional Pain Management

• DOT Exams

  What is Covered in a DOT Physical Exam? If you’re a professional truck or bus driver, you may have been told that you need a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. Mandated by federal law, this checkup clears you for driving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and helps ensure that you and fellow CMV drivers can handle the long hours, exhausting schedules, and stress of operating commercial vehicles. What is the DOT physical? The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations for safe operation of commercial vehicles in the country. Each state also has specific regulations. The test assesses your general health, as well as mental and emotional fitness for the demands of professional driving. The FMCSA requires all commercial drivers to carry a certificate of good health, which you’ll receive upon passing your DOT Medical Examination. Only medical professionals who are listed on the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners can issue your certificate. Those listed on the registry have had the proper training in FMCSA regulations to determine if you’re healthy enough to work safely and ensure that you’re not wrongly disqualified. Do I need a DOT Physical? Yes if you fall into one of these categories: You operate a motor vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people. You are paid to operate a motor vehicle designed to carry more than 8 people. You operate a motor vehicle with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of over 10,000 pounds. You transport hazardous materials that require your vehicle to be placarded. What happens in the exam? Before the appointment, you’ll fill out the previously mentioned Medical Examination Report form. Use the form to indicate any prior or current health conditions. These may include: Brain injuries or neurological disorders Epilepsy or seizures Loss of hearing Heart attack or heart disease Impaired vision Kidney disease Digestive problems Depression and anxiety disorders Dizziness or fainting Paralysis Stroke Missing limbs Spinal cord injuries Chronic pain Be honest in this form. If you’re not, you could have your certificate revoked. Your doctor will go over this form and ask additional questions. He or she will check your lung function, heart, digestive track, and coordination. You’ll also take some basic tests including: Blood pressure measurement Vision check Hearing test Urinalysis for glucose levels and drug screen The visit takes about 45 minutes. How often do I need an exam? Most medical certificates are good for two years. However, if you have low blood pressure or high blood pressure, or any other condition that may inhibit your ability to drive, you may receive a 1-year certificate. And if you have very high blood pressure or other treatable conditions, you may receive a 3-month certificate. After 3 months, if you show improvement in that condition, you’ll be eligible to get a 1 or 2-year certificate. Unfortunately, sometimes drivers begin suffering from a condition (after receiving their certificate) that makes it unsafe to carry out their responsibilities on the job. If this is the case, you must stop driving, have the condition treated, and then take your DOT physical again to ensure your safety as well as that of fellow drivers. What happens if I fail? If you fail the exam, this does not necessarily prohibit you from becoming a driver. Talk with your doctor about your disqualifying condition. If you can improve it with treatment, discuss a plan to address it and try again. The FMCSA has driver exemption programs for some people with diabetes, impaired vision or hearing, or other disabilities. Your doctor can help you decide if you’re eligible for those programs. According to the latest statistics from the FMCSA, large truck and bus fatalities have decreased 17% since 2003. Injury crashes have also dropped 18% and property-damage-only incidents have declined 27%. The industry’s focus on safety has been paying off, and your DOT physical plays an important role in CMV safety. At Comprehensive Primary Care, we make this exam easy and convenient for you. Contact us with any questions or to set up your appointment.

  Link: DOT Exams

• Well Child Visits

  What is pediatrics? Pediatrics is the branch of medicine that involves the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. It is important to keep up with pediatric appointments in order to assure that children are raised healthy. Children grow and develop rapidly and keeping up to date on the health, safety, nutrition, fitness needs, and development allows the prevention of illness. Having scheduled checkups often also gives the opportunity to receive actionable information about treatment options from a medical provider when necessary. What pediatric services are offered? At the Ribera Healthcare Clinic, parents can access a wide range of services for their children, including: Well-Child Checks During Well-Child exams, the healthcare provider will check the child’s growth and development in order to find or prevent problems. The child’s height, weight, and other important information will be kept on record. Hearing, vision, and other screening tests are also a part of some visits. Sick Appointments A sick child appointment is necessary to schedule when your child is not feeling well. Unlike Well-Child appointments that are routine checkups to prevent illness, during a sick appointment, the issue at hand will be addressed. Sports Physicals In the sports medicine field, a sports physical examination is known as a preparticipation physical examination. This exam helps determine whether it is safe for your child to participate in a certain sport. The two main parts of this examination include medical history and a physical exam.

  Link: Well Child Visits

• IV Infusion Therapy Specialist

  If you want to boost your immune system, increase your energy levels, or improve your complexion, consider IV infusion therapy. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Olga Lucero, MSN, FNP-C, offers IV infusion therapy, including IV hydration and vitamin therapy, to men, women, and teens. IV infusion therapy is quick, effective, and incredibly safe. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book online today. IV Infusion Therapy Q & A What is IV infusion therapy? IV infusion therapy exposes your body to vitamins, nutrients, and hydration through intravenous means. When you take vitamins or nutritional supplements orally, they break down in your stomach and digestive tract. Although there’s nothing wrong with this, your body can only absorb about 50% of the vitamins and nutrients provided. IV infusion therapy bypasses your digestive tract altogether. During treatment, you receive a liquid mixture of vitamins and nutrients through a small tube inserted into a vein. Higher levels of minerals and nutrients enter your bloodstream, allowing for a greater uptake by your cells. Increased nutrient uptake improves your general health and well-being while making it easier for your immune system to fight off illness. Are there different types of IV infusion therapy? At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, the team offers several types of IV infusion therapy, including: Vitamin therapy Vitamin therapy is a type of IV infusion therapy designed to address vitamin or nutritional deficiencies. If you don’t take supplements or eat a healthy, balanced diet, you’re also more likely to experience nutrient deficiencies. Over time, those deficiencies negatively affect your immune system and increase your risk of serious health problems. IV fluids IV fluids are a type of infusion therapy used to improve hydration. This type of IV infusion therapy is particularly beneficial for people who don’t drink enough water, or experience headaches, fatigue, and other uncomfortable side-effects due to travel or partying. What medical conditions can benefit from IV infusion therapy? IV infusion therapy can ease uncomfortable symptoms associated with a variety of medical conditions, including: Migraine Chronic fatigue syndrome Fibromyalgia Muscle spasms Pain Allergies Sinuses Respiratory tract infection At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, the team also recommends IV infusion therapy for athletes, weekend warriors, and busy professionals. If you’re physically active or always on the go, your immune system undergoes daily stress. IV infusion therapy provides support, ensuring you stay healthy, and perform at your best. How long does IV infusion therapy take? The length of your IV infusion therapy appointment depends on your health history and the type of fusion you’re receiving. Most appointments take 60-90 minutes. While you’re receiving your IV infusion, you can read a book, scroll on your smartphone, or close your eyes and relax. To schedule your IV infusion therapy appointment at Ribera Healthcare Clinic, call the office or book online today.

  Link: IV Infusion Therapy Specialist

• Diabetes

  If you’re one of the more than 100 million Americans living with diabetes, it’s important to regularly monitor your blood sugar levels, eat a healthy, balanced diet, and routinely visit the doctor. Without treatment, diabetes increases your risk of permanent nerve damage, heart disease, and even amputation. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Olga Lucero, MSN, FNP-C, provides diabetes diagnosis and treatment to people of all ages. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book online today. Diabetes Q & A What is diabetes? Diabetes is a general term that refers to a group of chronic diseases characterized by high blood sugar. Everyone needs some blood sugar (glucose) to survive. It provides energy for the muscles throughout your body and helps power your brain. If your blood sugar levels are too high for an extended time, it increases your risk of serious health problems, including nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy), heart disease, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Are there different types of diabetes? There are several types of diabetes, including: Type 1 diabetes Type 1 diabetes, or juvenile diabetes, occurs when your pancreas doesn’t make any insulin. Insulin is a hormone that’s responsible for regulating your blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease that requires insulin therapy and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Type 2 diabetes Type 2 diabetes occurs gradually, over time, as a result of insulin resistance. If you have Type 2 diabetes, your pancreas still makes insulin, but your body doesn’t use it properly. This causes your blood sugar levels to spike, increasing your risk of serious health problems. Gestational diabetes Gestational diabetes only affects pregnant women. When you’re pregnant, your body produces extra hormones to protect the growing fetus. Sometimes, these excess hormones affect your pancreas’ ability to regulate blood sugar. This type of diabetes usually resolves after you give birth. Prediabetes If you have prediabetes, it means that your blood sugar levels are consistently too high. Without intervention, prediabetes turns into Type 2 diabetes. If you catch prediabetes early on, it’s possible to reverse its effects through healthy lifestyle changes like regular exercise and eating a balanced diet. How is diabetes diagnosed? To diagnose diabetes, Olga conducts a physical exam, asks you about your symptoms, and reviews your medical history. Afterward, she orders a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. An A1C test measures your average blood sugar level for the previous three months. Two separate tests with an A1C result of 6.5 percent or higher means you have diabetes. If your test results aren’t consistent, Olga might recommend another blood test like a random blood sugar test or a fasting blood sugar test to gain further insights. How is diabetes treated? Treatment for diabetes usually involves healthy lifestyle changes, regular blood sugar monitoring, and insulin or other oral medications. To keep your blood sugar levels in check, Olga recommends eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting eight hours of sleep every night. With regular check-ups and prescription medications, it’s possible to live a healthy, vibrant life, even with diabetes. To schedule your diabetes appointment at Ribera Healthcare Clinic, call the office or book online today.

  Link: Diabetes

• Women's Health

  When was the last time you scheduled a women’s health appointment? If it’s been more than a year, don’t wait to take action. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Olga Lucero, MSN, FNP-C, offers a full suite of women’s health services, including gynecological care, family planning, hormonal therapy, and treatments for sexual dysfunction. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book a consultation online today. Women's Health Q & A What is women’s health? Women’s health is a branch of medicine focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness in women. As a woman, your reproductive system increases your risk of certain health problems such as breast cancer and cervical cancer. The natural aging process also results in significant hormonal changes as a result of menopause. Women’s health services can effectively treat these and other problems, improving your health and overall quality of life. What services does women’s health include? At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, women can access a wide range of women’s health services, including: Gynecology Gynecology focuses on all aspects of women’s health, including menstruation, sexual health, and menopause. Gynecologists also offer preventive screenings, including Pap tests and mammograms, as well as immunizations for the human papillomavirus (HPV). Contraception Contraception is a type of women’s health that focuses on family planning. If you’re sexually active, but don’t want to get pregnant, contraceptives like oral birth control, birth control patches, and intrauterine devices (IUD) can provide you with peace of mind. If you’re sexually active with multiple partners, Ribera Healthcare Clinic also offers STD testing. Hormonal therapy Every woman experiences menopause eventually. Menopause signifies the end of your reproductive lifestyle and occurs when you’ve gone a full year without a menstrual cycle. Unfortunately, menopause presents a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, low libido, and general irritability. Hormonal therapy uses synthetic hormones that mimic those produced in your body. Hormonal therapy can restore balance to your body and improve your quality of life. Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction When females experience sexual dysfunction, it often involves discomfort during sex. Issues like vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy are common problems that can make sex uncomfortable, especially for menopausal women. This can lead to friction and pain if you don’t become sufficiently aroused before having sex. However, other women may experience pain during intercourse due to a condition known as vaginismus, while others may experience difficulty achieving an orgasm or pain when they orgasm. How often should I schedule a women’s health exam? The team at Ribera Healthcare Clinic recommends you schedule a women’s health exam once each year. Many serious health problems, including cervical cancer and breast cancer, present few apparent symptoms early on. Regular check-ups can catch these and other issues in their beginning stages, ensuring more effective treatment. A women’s health exam also presents an opportunity to build a relationship with your medical provider. During your appointment, you can ask questions and discuss concerns or unusual symptoms you’re experiencing. Everything you say is completely confidential, ensuring you can share all aspects of your health in a private and welcoming environment. To schedule your women’s health exam at Ribera Healthcare Clinic, call the office or book online today.

  Link: Women's Health

• Physicals

  If it's been more than a year or two since your last physical exam, don’t wait to take action. Regular physicals present an opportunity to check in on your health and build a relationship with your doctor. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Olga Lucero, MSN, FNP-C, offers several types of physicals to people of all ages. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book a physical exam online today. Physicals Q & A What is a physical exam? A physical exam is a routine screening procedure used to determine your general well-being. During a physical exam, your Ribera Healthcare Clinic provider: Checks for possible diseases to ensure early treatment Identifies issues that may become medical concerns in the future Updates necessary immunizations Asks you about your lifestyle, including diet and exercise A physical exam also presents the opportunity to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. High readings increase your risk of serious health problems, but they may not present any noticeable symptoms. A physical exam can alert you to issues early on when they’re most responsive to treatment. Are there different types of physicals? At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, patients can access several types of physicals, including: Sports physicals Many school districts and youth sports leagues require participants to undergo a sports physical before starting a new season. During a sports physical, your child’s provider checks their vital signs, balance, coordination, and flexibility. They also provide tips and insights for injury prevention. Comprehensive physicals A comprehensive physical checks in on all aspects of your physical, mental, and neurological health. During this type of physical, your Ribera Healthcare Clinic provider examines your eyes, ears, nose, and throat, checks your vital signs including heart and respiratory rate, and orders laboratory testing, including a complete blood count (CBC). DOT physicals A DOT physical is a medical examination of a commercial driver performed by a licensed medical examiner. It ensures that a person is medically qualified to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. How often should I schedule a physical exam? The team at Ribera Healthcare Clinic recommends you schedule a physical exam at least once a year. Even if you feel relatively healthy, preventive check-ups and screenings still matter. The sooner you can detect and treat serious health problems, the less likely they are to negatively affect your quality of life. To schedule a physical exam for yourself or a family member at Ribera Healthcare Clinic, call the office or book online today.

  Link: Physicals

• Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

  Hormone Replacement Therapy Q & A What is BHRT For Women? Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is the use of “bioidentical hormones” to supplement your body’s natural supply when you aren’t producing enough on your own for optimal health. Hormones are messenger chemicals that tell other parts of the body how and when to work. They control almost all tasks in the body. Low or imbalanced hormone levels can have widespread effects on your health and feeling of well-being. In women, BHRT is most commonly used to treat the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. However, hormone imbalances can occur at any age, even in women as young as in their 20s. Bioidentical hormones are different from those used in traditional hormone replacement therapy. Traditional HRT uses hormones made from the urine of pregnant horses and other synthetic hormones. Bioidentical hormones, which are man-made from plant estrogens, have the same molecular structure and act the same as natural human hormones. The most common hormones used in BHRT for women are estrogens (estradiol (E2) and estriol (E3)) and progesterone. testosterone, pregnenolone, and/or DHEA may also be part of a treatment plan for some patients. Bioidentical hormones can be custom compounded for an individual patient, according to a doctor’s orders. Hormone pellets are a unique delivery form created to replicate as closely as possible the way in which hormones are naturally released in the body. In a simple, quick office procedure, these rice-grain-sized pellets are inserted under a patient’s skin near the hip area via a trocar. Delivering hormone replacement therapy in pellet form has multiple benefits: Closest to nature — Pellets mimic the body’s natural delivery system more closely than any other method. Consistency — Pellets supply a consistent level of hormones in the bloodstream. Convenience — Hormone pellets only need to be inserted 2-4 times per year, replacing oral medications that must be taken daily. Fewer side effects — Pellet therapy bypasses the liver, sending hormones directly into the bloodstream, and avoiding certain side effects of oral medications. Some patients report feeling symptom relief in as little as four weeks, although complete symptom relief may take up to six months. What are some of the symptoms? What are my treatment options? Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be utilized in both Men and Women. Low or imbalanced hormone levels may produce the following symptoms; Low Testosterone levels Testosterone is a sex hormone often associated with males, though females have small amounts. It has many important functions, including: the development of the bones and muscles the deepening of the voice, hair growth, and other factors related to appearance the production of sperm Testosterone production can slow as a person ages, and many older people experience symptoms of low testosterone. The American Urology Association defines low testosterone as less than 300 nanograms (ng) of the hormone per deciliter (dl) of blood. The foundation also reports that about 2 in every 100 men have low testosterone. Low Estrogen Levels Estrogen is a hormone that is important for health. Females have higher quantities of estrogen, but it is present in all people. Low estrogen can result in irregular periods, changes in sex drive, and decreased bone density. In females, the ovaries are the main organs that produce estrogen and play an important role in sexual development and fertility. In males, the body converts some testosterone to estrogen, supporting overall health and some reproductive functions. Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout life. In females, they naturally drop after menopause and after giving birth. This is typical, although it may result in various symptoms. Fatigue Hormonal imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the bloodstream. Because of their essential role in the body, even slight hormonal imbalances can cause side effects throughout the body. Hormones are chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system. Hormones travel through the bloodstream to the tissues and organs, delivering messages that tell the organs what to do and when to do it. Hormones are essential for regulating most major bodily processes, so a hormonal imbalance can affect many bodily functions. Hormones help to regulate: metabolism blood sugar growth blood pressure reproductive cycles and sexual function general growth and development mood and stress levels Imbalances in insulin, steroids, growth hormones, and adrenaline can affect males and females alike. Erectile Dysfunction Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which you are unable to get or keep an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual intercourse.

  Link: Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Medical Weight Loss

  Medical weight loss is the safest way to lose weight because you have the support of a team of health care experts who can monitor you at every stage. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Olga Lucero, MSN, FNP-C, provides expert advice and scientifically proven therapies that help you lose those excess pounds and keep them off for good. Call Ribera Healthcare Clinic to find out more about the benefits of medical weight loss or schedule a consultation using the online booking tool today. Medical Weight Loss Q & A What is medical weight loss? Medical weight loss is a safe and effective method of losing excess weight. The Ribera Healthcare Clinic team uses the most up-to-date scientific research to support you throughout your weight loss journey, creating a personalized program that optimizes your chances of success. At its core, weight loss requires a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise. However, numerous factors can make it difficult for people to achieve this goal, including the following: Too little time Lack of energy Emotional problems Lifestyle pressures Lack of knowledge Health issues These factors can all make losing weight a considerable challenge. If you’ve had problems sticking with a diet, medical weight loss could be the answer. How do I get started with a medical weight loss program? The first stage of successful weight loss is for you to have a physical examination and health assessment at Ribera Healthcare Clinic. It’s vital to determine your health's current state to ensure you’re well and able to start on a medical weight loss program. Certain medical conditions like diabetes and thyroid disease can make it more difficult to lose weight and can even make you gain weight. Diagnosing and treating underlying health problems is essential for successful weight loss. The Ribera Healthcare Clinic team conducts a comprehensive physical assessment, including checks on your blood pressure and heart and lung function. They also run tests such as body composition analysis (to check what percentage of your body is fat), metabolic and cholesterol profiles, and hormone analysis. Once the team has all the information they need, they can prepare your medical weight loss program. How does a medical weight loss program work? Each patient’s medical weight loss program is designed especially for them, so there’s no definitive method. Potential treatments that could be in your weight loss plan include: Education on healthy eating Nutritional consultation Exercise consultation Keeping a food journal MIC (methionine, inositol, and choline) injections B12 injections Prescription appetite suppressants You have regular contact with the Ribera Healthcare Clinic team to ensure you’re well and losing weight steadily. Some of these consultations could take place using state-of-the-art secure telemedicine technologies, saving you the need to visit the clinic in person. The aim is for you to lose weight sustainably so that when you reach your target weight and stop dieting, you don't immediately regain the pounds you've lost. Medical weight loss not only helps you reach your target weight, but it also helps you stay there for life. To find out more about medical weight loss, call Ribera Healthcare Clinic today or book an appointment online.

  Link: Medical Weight Loss

• Men's Health

  If you’re a man, it’s important to schedule a men’s health exam at least once a year. Even if you feel relatively healthy, many serious problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes don’t present symptoms early on. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Olga Lucero, MSN, FNP-C, offers a wide range of men’s health services, including diagnosis and treatment of low libido, prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, and other forms of sexual dysfunction. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book online today. Men's Health Q & A What is men’s health? Men’s health is a branch of medicine focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness in men. Although men and women experience many of the same health problems, men are less likely to visit the doctor regularly. They’re also more likely to partake in bad habits, like drinking alcohol, using tobacco, and eating unhealthy foods. When combined, these factors make them more susceptible to heart disease and certain types of cancer. Men’s health works to catch these and other problems early on when they’re most responsive to treatment. It also provides nutritional counseling and health monitoring, to boost vitality and longevity. What are some common men’s health problems? Men’s health services provide diagnosis and treatment for a variety of common health problems, including: Influenza and pneumonia Heart disease Liver disease Respiratory disease Unintentional injuries and accidents Alcohol use Tobacco use Diabetes Low libido Low testosterone Hormonal imbalance Erectile dysfunction Premature ejaculation Peyronie’s disease Many men also experience mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Men’s health can diagnose and treat these issues, as well. What happens during a men’s health appointment? At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, no two men’s health appointments are exactly alike. The team tailors treatment to your unique needs and personal health history. That said, most appointments follow the same basic structure: Physical exam During a physical exam, your Ribera Healthcare Clinic provider reviews your medical history, asks you about any unusual symptoms, and conducts a physical and neurological exam. Your provider also tests your reflexes and checks your vitals, including your heart and respiratory rate. Laboratory testing The only way to detect certain health problems, including diabetes, high cholesterol, and hormonal imbalances is through laboratory testing. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, men can undergo blood tests, urinalysis, and stool sample assessments. Your provider uses the information gathered during these tests to diagnose and treat a variety of ailments. Preventive screenings After the age of 50, it’s important you participate in preventive measures such as prostate exams and colorectal cancer screenings. These and other serious health problems respond best to treatment when they’re caught early on. How are men’s health problems treated? Men’s health treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms you’re experiencing and your health history. At Ribera Healthcare Clinic, the team usually recommends healthy lifestyle treatments and holistic measures of care. If you experience low libido or sexual dysfunction, losing weight, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet may be enough to reverse your symptoms. However, if the problem persists, you might also benefit from hormonal therapy to increase testosterone levels. Chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease might also require prescription medications as well as regular monitoring. The team at Ribera Healthcare Clinic can develop a custom care plan that aligns with your goals and needs. To schedule your men’s health appointment at Ribera Healthcare Clinic, call the office or book a consultation online today.

  Link: Men's Health