Men are infamous for ignoring their health issues. Complaining about aches and pains somehow seems unmanly to many men. According to Miami urologist Dr. George Suarez, that’s one reason men are more likely than women to avoid going to the doctor.
In fact, three out of four people who have not seen a doctor in more than five years are men. They balk at going to the doctor because they like to view themselves as being independent and self-reliant. And while this attitude is admirable in some areas of life, it can be fatal when it comes to health.
Following are seven subtle symptoms men should never, ever ignore:
Constipation. Many men take a laxative to relieve constipation. But the condition can be the sign of a tumor in the lower bowel that’s blocking waste from exiting the body. If the situation doesn’t clear up after a few days, a visit to your Miami urologist is needed because colorectal cancer is the third-leading reason of cancer-related deaths in men.
Unusual-looking freckles. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women alike. Skin cancer rates are skyrocketing, so an unusual-looking freckle or mole that is new or irregular in shape should always be checked out by your doctor as soon as it is noticed.
Chronic indigestion. Occasional heartburn is nothing to be concerned about, but if a man suffers from chronic acid reflux at least twice a week, he may have gastro-esophageal reflux, or GERD, which can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and ulcers of the esophagus and in some cases can even cause esophageal cancer.
Constant thirst. An unquenchable thirst can be a sign of diabetes. Other symptoms include frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss or gain, nausea, and blurred vision. Every man should get a simple yearly blood test at his Miami urologist’s office to measure glucose levels and diagnose diabetes.
Painful urination. In women, this pain typically indicates a urinary infection, but in men it may be a symptom of an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer.
Erectile dysfunction. A recent study found that men who experienced erectile dysfunction in their 40s or 50s were 50 times more likely to have heart trouble later in life than those who don’t. Men who experience erectile dysfunction should have a thorough cardiac exam.
Snoring. Snoring can be an aggravation — especially to a bed partner — but it can also be a sign of sleep apnea, which affects men significantly more often than women.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms – don’t hesitate – contact the office of best Miami urologist Dr. George Suarez today to schedule a confidential consultation.
