It’s no secret that men are less likely to go to the doctor when they experience certain symptoms, much less for an annual health check-up. As a result, a significant number of men develop diseases that could have been prevented in the early stages, something that can be done with a simple trip to the doctor.
With that in mind, we hope to change this mindset that a lot of modern men still have, both for better health and longevity. So, if you are experiencing these symptoms, find out why you need to go for a check-up as soon as possible:
1. Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common in older men, but it can happen in men below their 40s as well. ED is usually a symptom of an underlying health condition, such s high blood pressure, diabetes, nerve damage, multiple sclerosis, and other disorders that can affect the blood flow to the penis. ED could also be caused by certain medications, mental health issues, and lifestyle habits (smoking, drinking, being overweight, etc.).
Luckily, erectile dysfunction treatment services are widely available these days. If you experience ED, go to the doctor to find out what’s causing the problem and determine the best type of treatment.
2. Unexplained weight loss
A sudden and unexplained drop in your weight should be a cause for concern. It can be an effect of diabetes, Chron’s disease, an overactive thyroid, cancer, or something else just as serious. Hence, don’t immediately chalk up your dramatic weight loss to being stressed or somehow eating less, especially if there are no changes to your diet or physical activity in the first place.
3. Testicle lumps
A testicular examination should start at 15 years old and continue through age 40. With a regular examination of one’s testicles, you are much better able to detect a lump or abnormality as early as possible and alert your doctor about it. A lump on your testicle could denote the presence of testicular cancer, and the earlier it is detected, the easier it is to treat.
4. Loud snoring
It is common for most men to snore, and it’s often the bane of their bedmates. However, excessive snoring could be a sign of a health issue and should not be ignored. Loud snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, which can be a symptom of health conditions like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Sleep apnea can also lead to sleep disruptions, which can lead to non-restful sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and increased irritability, among other issues.
Excessive snoring can be reduced by weight loss and other healthy lifestyle changes. However, you may need a breathing device or surgery to improve the airflow in your airway and prevent it from becoming blocked while you sleep.
5. Feelings of depression
According to Harvard, somewhere between 10% and 17% of men will develop major depression at some point in their lifetimes. Unfortunately, most men are reluctant to seek help due to issues brought about by societal expectations that men are supposed to be strong. Due to this, a lot of men with depression choose not to seek treatment and develop unhealthy coping mechanisms, with some even becoming suicidal.
If you feel depressed at any point in your life, be it at 18 or 45, don’t hesitate to seek help. When left unaddressed, depression can affect every aspect of your life, including work, relationships, and your personal health.
6. Changes in urinary habits
Changes in urinary habits, such as frequent urination, having trouble urinating, or leaking urine, may be signs of an underlying health condition. For example, trouble urinating can mean that your prostate gland has grown large enough to squeeze your ureter (the tube that carries urine out of the bladder). Or if you feel pain or a burning sensation when you urinate, you may have a bacterial infection or prostate cancer.
7. Chest pain
The most common cause of death for men in the United States is heart disease. The risk is higher for men who are overweight or obese, smoke, drink excessively, and get little to no exercise. When left ignored, heart disease can lead to a stroke, a heart attack, and other symptoms like shortness of breath and cold sweats.
Pain in the middle or left side of the chest is the most common sign of a heart attack. If you think you’re having one, call 911 immediately. But before that happens, make the necessary lifestyle changes to minimize your risk of heart disease, such as losing weight and reducing alcohol intake.
Almost all health conditions are easier to treat with early detection. That said, if you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s best to seek help from your healthcare provider right away.
