6 health symptoms men shouldn’t ignore

Source: Bigstock

Studies time and time again confirm that men are significantly less likely to visit a doctor when feeling under the weather, or worse – signs of a more serious condition begin to surface. Men are generally much less likely than women to be frank and open when it comes to discussing matters of health and tend to avoid doctors until symptoms become unmanageable. 

However, this somewhat casual approach to health and wellbeing can lead to severe consequences, especially if the condition develops into something more threatening. In the vast majority of cases, a simple checkup with your local GP can alleviate the issue, or at the very least, put your mind at rest. 

With that being said, here are six symptoms that mean simply shouldn’t ignore.

Moles 

If you notice the appearance of moles on your skin, you need to assess whether or not they change in shape or colour. While in most cases moles are harmless, they can act as an early warning sign of skin cancer. 

Most notably, if the moles cause an itching sensation or begin to bleed, you should contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will evaluate the moles, and likely ask you some questions about when they appeared, and whether they have changed in appearance since you first noticed then. 

Issues When Urinating

If you notice any unusual changes in your ability to urinate, or you experience a burning sensation when you do, you will need to monitor the situation closely. The reason for this is that it could be an early sign of prostate disease. 

If the prostate is enlarged, then it can cause trouble when you urinate. Other symptoms to keep an eye on is a constant need to urinate during the night.

Erectile Dysfunction

While Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a taboo subject, it is important to note that it is something that affects most men at some point in their lives. Commonly referred to as impotence, ED centres on an inability to get or maintain an erection. If you notice that the issue has been present for several weeks, then you should go and speak with your GP. If you find discussing the issue in person to be embarrassing, there are a number of online doctors in Australia that can offer 24/7 support.

Not only will they be able to assess whether or not some lifestyle changes can alleviate the problem, and, if necessary, prescribe you with medication, but they will also be keen to see whether it’s an early sign of a more severe condition. This can include diabetes or heart disease.  

Finding a Lump on Your Testicles

If you notice a lump on your testicles that wasn’t previously there, then you should consult your doctor immediately. 

Testicular cancer affects an estimated 1 in every 250 males. Ultimately, by getting the lump checked out by a doctor and it does turn out to be cancerous, treatment is significantly more effective if caught early. Of course, many lumps turn out to be harmless cysts, but regular self exams and getting anything suspicious checked out by a doctor will help ensure peace of mind.

Depression 

Much like impotence, mental health is a sensitive subject among men. However, with an estimated 45% of Australian men experiencing mental illness at some point of their lives, the issue is more prevalent than you may think. 

If you feel consistently low in mood, a confidential conversation with your doctor will be the first step in assessing the best course of treatment, and subsequently, getting you back on the right track.

Sudden Weight Loss 

If you have not made any changes to your exercise or eating habits, but you begin to notice that you are losing significant amounts of weight, you should speak with your doctor. 

This is because a sudden loss of weight could be an early warning of a more serious condition – such as stomach, pancreatic or lung cancer.

Related Post