International Men’s Health Week 2019: From Impotence to Pot Belly, 8 Symptoms Men Should NEVER Ignore

International Men’s Health Week 2019 has officially been kicked off and will go on from June 10 to 16 (which is Father’s Day). Since June 2002, the week is observed to understand men’s health problems, to educate the public about their wellness and to get more men to seek medical attention for her health issues. Observers of the day wear a blue ribbon as a symbol of their support for men’s health. Apart from prostate cancer, men are also susceptible to diabetes, osteoporosis, workplace accidents, suicides and homicides. But stats say that men ignore their symptoms, only going to the doctor half as often as women do. But when it comes to men’s health, a stitch in time can indeed save time. From impotence to pot bellies, here are some of the symptoms men should never ignore.

1. Erectile Dysfunction or Impotence

Erectile dysfunction is not just a sexual problem. It could point to a larger problem that could prove fatal. Erection is caused by increased blood flow to the genitals. If you have trouble getting or maintaining an erection, the problem could lay with your circulatory system. Impotence could point to more serious health conditions such as heart diseases, blood pressure or diabetes. Get Stronger & Healthier Erections: Men’s Health Week 2018 Tips To Help Him Last Longer.

2. Difficulty While Urinating

Senior men may face some trouble while urinating, which shouldn’t be overlooked as a symptom of ageing. Difficulty in passing urine could be a symptom of an enlarged prostate, a walnut-sized gland between the bladder and the penis. When it gets enlarged, it puts pressure on the urethra, the tube which carries urine out of the body. An enlarged prostate can also be a sign of urinary tract infection, inflammation of the gland, scarring in the bladder or kidney stones.

3. Suspicious-Looking Moles

If you see a new mole on your body, don’t dismiss it. Get it checked by a dermatologist. Even if an existing mole changes colour or shape, or starts bleeding, see your doctor at the earliest. Changing moles can be a sign of skin cancer.

4. Chest Pain

Pain in the chest cannot be ignored. Commonly, men attribute pressure, pain or congestion in the chest to GERD or gas. But radiating chest pain that spreads to the jaw and hands can be a sign of something serious like a heart attack. It could also be signs of a blood clot, pneumonia, angina, asthma or anxiety.

5. A Big Belly

A nice, rotund belly isn’t always a sign of prosperity. A big waistline, bigger than your hips, is a cause for some serious concern. Potbelly is a sign that there’s excessive visceral fat. Central obesity can raise your risk for many diseases, including heart diseases and Alzheimer’s disease. If you are big in the middle, cut down on alcohol, exercise, eat clean and visit a doctor.

6. Depression that Doesn’t Go Away

A bad mood once in a while is not new. But being depressed for a long time is a sign that you should seek help or talk to someone about it. Men generally downplay their mental health needs, thinking it is socially unacceptable for them to talk about feelings. Although mental health problems are more common in women, men are more likely to commit suicide due to depression. Remember that depression can be treated and is not the end of the road. Understanding 5 Shocking Facts About Depression and Suicides in Men.

7. Lump on the Testicle

Any kind of lump you feel on the testicles shouldn’t be ignored. See your doctor at the earliest. While lumps in the testicles could be something harmless most of the times, in rare cases, they could be signs of testicular cancer. Early diagnosis can ensure better treatment and recovery.

8. Bad Breath

Bad breath isn’t always a sign of bad oral hygiene, and popping a mint will not always help. A fruity mouth odour can be a sign of diabetes, kidney or liver dysfunction or gastrointestinal diseases. Periodontal diseases or gum diseases can also culminate in more serious problems. The bacteria causing the gum condition can travel to the blood vessels, hardening and narrowing them. Say Ahh! 5 Oral Health Symptoms You Should NEVER Ignore.

Men should be wary of any kind of changes that take place. According to studies, 60 percent of men don’t go to the doctor because they are too casual or disinterested in their own health. Even simple symptoms can be a sign of something going gravely wrong in your body. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help you save your life. So on International Men’s Health Week 2019, give your health a chance.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 10, 2019 11:48 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).