Men, it's time to prioritize your health! Learn about critical health symptoms you should not overlook. Early intervention saves lives.
- Chest pain, often tied to cardiac issues, should never be sidelined
- Persistent fatigue might point to anemia, depression, or thyroid disorders
- Urinary changes, including blood presence, can signify prostate issues or infections
Chest Pain or Discomfort
It is one of the most common symptoms that men should never overlook. While it is frequently connected with cardiac problems, it is critical to remember that chest pain can have a variety of reasons. Ignoring this symptom, on the other hand, could be fatal (1✔ ✔Trusted SourcePresenting Symptoms in Men and Women Diagnosed With Myocardial Infarction Using Sex-Specific Criteria
Go to source). If you have any type of chest discomfort, seek emergency medical assistance to rule out any dangerous diseases.
Breathing Problems
Breathing problems can signal underlying health problems, both respiratory and cardiovascular. Men should be aware of sudden or prolonged shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or rest. It could be an indication of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)- especially in smokers- or even a pulmonary embolism (2✔ ✔Trusted SourceThe Differential Diagnosis of Dyspnea
Go to source).
Significant and Unexplained Weight Changes
Significant and unexplained weight loss or gain can suggest potential health problems that must be addressed. Sudden weight loss can be caused by underlying diseases such as cancer, hyperthyroidism, or digestive problems. In contrast, unexplained weight gain could be caused by hormonal imbalances or metabolic problems (3✔ ✔Trusted SourceWeight change in middle-aged British men: implications for health
Go to source).
Exhaustion and Lethargy
Excessive tiredness, exhaustion, or a lack of energy regularly is not a normal state and should not be ignored. Persistent weariness might indicate several illnesses, including anemia, depression, sleep apnea, or thyroid issues (4✔ ✔Trusted SourceFatigue as the Chief Complaint–Epidemiology, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Go to source). Identifying and resolving the underlying reason is critical for restoring energy levels and overall well-being.
Bowel Changes
Men should be aware of any substantial changes in their bowel habits. Consistent diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool could be symptoms of gastrointestinal problems or possibly colon cancer. Early intervention can improve outcomes and potentially save lives (5✔ ✔Trusted SourceDiarrhea
Go to source).
Urinary Symptoms such as Increased Frequency, Urgency, or Blood in Urine
Urinary symptoms such as increased frequency, urgency, or blood in the urine should never be ignored. These symptoms may signal urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or even prostate issues, including prostate cancer (6✔ ✔Trusted SourceBenign prostatic hyperplasia and urinary symptoms: Evaluation and treatment
Go to source). Early detection and treatment are critical for properly managing these illnesses and avoiding any consequences.
Back Pain
Back pain is a common complaint, but if it lasts for an extended period or is accompanied by other symptoms, it should not be ignored. Persistent back discomfort may indicate spinal difficulties, kidney problems, or other underlying illnesses that necessitate medical attention (7✔ ✔Trusted SourceBack Pain
Go to source).
Significant Mood Changes
Work and the workplace have a substantial impact on people's mental health, either positively or negatively. Only a small number of males seek professional care after experiencing a mental health condition or poor mental health as a result of their job. It is stigmatized, and terminology such as 'Toxic Masculinity' has been coined. The societal pressures are enormous. But we must overcome this hurdle at some point (8✔ ✔Trusted SourceCritical Issues in Men's Mental Health
Go to source).
References:
- Presenting Symptoms in Men and Women Diagnosed With Myocardial Infarction Using Sex-Specific Criteria - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31431112/)
- The Differential Diagnosis of Dyspnea - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28098068/)
- Weight change in middle-aged British men: implications for health - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2132413/)
- Fatigue as the Chief Complaint–Epidemiology, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34196270/)
- Diarrhea - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/)
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia and urinary symptoms: Evaluation and treatment - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25823641/)
- Back Pain - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538173/)
- Critical Issues in Men's Mental Health - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29673272/)
Source-Medindia