Men’s health notes

Gaining a bit of weight, snoring or the odd ache and pain is easy to write off as ‘life,’ and ignore it, but as it is Men’s Health Week, here are a few things that could be signs that it’s time to have a chat with your doctor.

Your body usually gives signs or indications of disease for some time before they become problematic – we just often are ‘too busy’ or perhaps a bit scared of what we’ll find to take them seriously.

An annual health check is equally important for men and women. If you haven’t had one in the last 12 months, book and appointment, even if you feel fine. A doctor’s visit is as much a part of a healthy lifestyle as clean eating and consistent exercise. If you have any issues or symptoms, especially any of the below, don’t be afraid to speak up and let your doctor know.

Back Pain

Back pain can be a generic sort of thing that we write off to too much exercise, too much time spent in a car, the way you sit or simply old age. However, whether it’s a muscle ache or sharp tension, back pain can be a symptom of more serious health issues and should be checked. Back pain can indicate an injury, the onset of kidney stones, generalised infection, inflammation (like arthritis) or even cancer. If you have prolonged pain that doesn’t subside, or any numbness or tingling, talk to a medical professional.

Erectile Dysfunction

Many men experience erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives but if this is an it becomes an ongoing issue, not only can it affect your relationship and personal demeanour, it may mean there’s something else going on. Talk to your doctor if you have a family history of or are at risk for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and depression, all of which can affect your ability to maintain an erection.

Urinary Troubles

Is your sleep being compromised by having to go to the toilet more often, or are you going less?  Speak to your GP about any changes in your urinary habits.

Snoring

About a third of your day is spent asleep, wand good quality sleep is vital to a healthy lifestyle. Snoring can be a minor nuisance to anyone sleeping near you, but it can also interrupt your own sleep schedule. It may be a sign of sleep apnea, a common but chronic sleep disorder that can and should be treated. Chronic sleep apnea can put you at risk for high blood pressure, heart problems, and diabetes.

Weight Gain or Loss

Sudden or unexplained weight fluctuations may occur even when you’re not on a diet. This can be a result of many things, so it’s important to take note of any ups and downs and keep your doctor updated of unexpected weight changes.

When it comes to your health, it pays to check.