WHAT IS MEN’S HEALTH ISSUES?
Let’s say right away that men’s health matters as it is a common perception that men do not put their health at the forefront when compared to women. From birth to death, women are healthier than men with almost all causes of death being led by men versus women.
Generally, it is men who suffer from most common diseases, accidents, suicide and lifestyle-related health conditions but unfortunately men are less likely to seek professional help for problems, particularly those of an emotional nature.
Certain health conditions such as prostate cancer and low testosterone only affect men but major health risks can be prevented and treated with an early diagnosis like colon cancer or heart disease.
The biggest problem is that many of the diseases that commonly affect men are preventable and treatable– but the diseases are the result of lack of health care monitoring earlier in life. Men have to be proactive in caring for themselves.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS OF MEN’S HEALTH ISSUES?
There can be many causes and issues noted but focus will be given to health issues that are a major threat to men overall.
Heart Disease
Commonly known as heart disease, man’s worst enemy is cardiovascular disease (CVD) that are a huge public health problem, however, it can be prevented.
A man’s likelihood of developing heart disease is significantly higher due to certain risk factors.
These factors include:
- High blood pressure
- High blood cholesterol
- Pre-diabetes and diabetes
- Smoking
- Being overweight
- Being physically inactive
- A family history of heart disease
- Unhealthy diet
- Stress
- Age
Prostate Cancer
The most common cancer in men, prostate cancer is generally a slow-developing disease. A majority of men can live for many years with low-grade prostate cancer without experiencing symptoms or it becoming potentially fatal. Symptoms may include:
- Frequent need to urinate
- Difficulty urinating
- Traces of blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the thighs, hips or lower back
There are certain risk factors closely linked to an increased chance of developing prostate cancer. These factors include:
- Age
- Family history
- Genetics
- Diet
- Lifestyle
Depression
Depression is a serious and common condition which requires help and support in recovery. It’s a high-risk factor for suicide and is the leading cause of death for men under the age of 54.
It’s important you seek help or speak to someone if you’ve been experiencing any of these signs for more than two weeks,
- Social withdrawal
- Procrastinating at work/school
- Using alcohol or drugs as an escape
- Retreating from your usually enjoyed activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Looming sadness
- Feelings of extreme guilt
- Difficulty making decisions
- Hopelessness
- Extreme fatigue
- Loss or change in appetite
Diabetes
When your body cannot maintain healthy levels of glucose in the blood you become diabetic. Sugar levels in the blood fluctuate, causing complications that can lead to a range of health problems; issues with the nervous system, kidneys, skin and eyes, cardiovascular disease, erectile dysfunction.
Symptoms of early diabetes include:
- Frequent urination
- Abnormal fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Numbness in the hands or feet
- Increased thirst
- Sores that don’t heal
CAN I TREAT MEN’S HEALTH WITH HOLISTIC HEALTH TREATMENT?
Always discuss your health concerns with a medical professional.
Understanding the risks are a good start but you need to go beyond by taking action to reduce your risks. Some risk factors can’t be changed, such as your genetics but others can be worked on by making smart choices that include lifestyle changes. Smart choices include keeping a tab on your habits and seeking help when needed along with:
- Healthy eating
- Physically active
- Avoid smoking
- Monitoring your health on a regular basis
- Knowing your family history
- Learning stress-management techniques
- Watching your weight
- Limiting alcohol intake
Have a question about Men’s Health? ASK A PRACTITIONER or FIND A PRACTITIONER today.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog or in any linked material is not intended and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For holistic health advice and consultation, visit https://www.mywellself.ca/.
