Men are usually the first to complain when they catch a (man)-flu, but when it comes to more serious health problems, they are often too shy or embarrassed to talk about it and go to their GP.
More than 100,000 men a year die prematurely in the UK as a consequence of neglecting their health. It’s important that you are aware of changes to your health so that you don’t risk paying the price. If you notice that something isn’t right, act immediately and visit your GP.
What better occasion of Men’s Health Week to rethink about your health and see what you can do to improve your wellbeing?
Here are 3 health issues and symptoms that you should never ignore:
1. Moles
Check your moles regularly and be aware of any change in colour or shape, or if they start bleeding. Most changes are harmless but if a mole looks unusual or becomes itchy, see your GP.
2. Depression
If you’re depressed, you may lose interest in things you used to enjoy. Depression can affect your work, social and family life. Don’t be scared to talk about it with your mates and family but if you need extra help, contact your GP.
3. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer usually develops slowly, so you may have no signs for many years.
Symptoms often only become apparent when your prostate is large enough to affect the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis).
Some of the symptoms you might experience are: the need to urinate often, especially at night, difficulty starting to urinate, straining to urinate or taking a long time to finish and pain when urinating or during sex. These symptoms can also be caused by other prostate problems such as prostate enlargement. In any case, don’t ignore the problem and go to your GP.
Stay healthy by following our 3 top health tips for guys…
1. Be active
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, such as cycling or fast walking, and strength exercises that work all the major muscles.
Avoid sitting down at your desk for too long. Stretch your legs and take a stroll. No matter how busy you are, you’ll feel refreshed, energised and less stressed afterwards.
If you already exercise and want to experience something different, why don’t you try some British Military sessions or sign up for adventurous challenges
2. Minimise Alcohol
Did you know that a standard glass of wine can contain as many calories as a piece of chocolate, and a pint of lager has about the same calories as a packet of crisps? Keep alcohol within the sensible limits – no more than 3 to 4 units in a day.
The benefits of reducing alcohol are huge, for example: you’ll feel less tired during the day, your skin may start to look better and you may stop gaining weight.
3. Eat Healthy
There’s no need to be master-chef to prepare healthy meals. Stick to simple ways of cooking such as baking, boiling and steaming. Eat plenty of fruit, veggies and fish, avoid processed meat like sausages and bacon and cut down on butter and hard cheese.
Eating out? Try to choose the healthier options on the menu. If you can’t resist your temptations, go for a regular, single-patty hamburger without mayonnaise or cheese and add extra salad instead.
For more information on men’s health and Men’s Health Week visit: www.menshealthforum.org.uk
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