Men’s health is often overlooked because men are perceived to be strong and resilient. But they do get sick or have their fair share of health scares. Men may not be as vocal about their issues, but they experience them daily. 

Some studies suggest that men face a higher risk than women when it comes to developing certain conditions, especially in old age. Fortunately, most of these conditions can be easily prevented or managed with early detection and treatment. Here are the top 7 most common men’s health issues and how you can ensure you stay healthy.

1. Heart disease:

Men have a higher risk of developing heart disease than women. According to many reports, Men account for almost 70 percent of all new cases of coronary heart disease each year. 

This is because as we age, our arteries naturally stiffen, making it harder for blood to flow through them. This can lead to a buildup of fatty deposits on the artery walls, known as plaque, which can lead to heart attacks.

 If you have a family history of heart disease, you are more likely to get it yourself. Heredity accounts for about 35 to 40 percent of your risk. Also, if you have unhealthy habits such as smoking, not exercising regularly, or not eating a balanced diet, you are more likely to develop heart disease. 

By making healthy lifestyle choices and spotting risks early, it is possible to prevent heart disease or catch it early enough to reverse the damage.

 

2. High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol 

High blood pressure and cholesterol are two conditions that can increase the risk for heart disease. Both conditions are largely preventable through diet and exercise. 

While high cholesterol is sometimes caused by genetics, high blood pressure is generally avoidable. If you’re in your 30s or older, it’s a good idea to get your cholesterol and blood pressure checked every few years. 

If you have a family history of high cholesterol or high blood pressure, it’s best to get checked more often. There are plenty of affordable options when it comes to blood tests. It’s important to know your numbers so that you can get the care you need to prevent heart disease.

 

3. Diabetes

Some men may suffer from diabetes without even knowing it. The prevalence of diabetes is higher among men than women, and nearly half of all cases in the United States are diagnosed in men. A person is diagnosed with diabetes when his or her blood sugar is consistently above normal levels.

 It can lead to heart disease, blindness, and even death. Treatment varies from person to person, but experts recommend that men aged 40 and older get screened for diabetes every three years. Your doctor can perform a simple blood test to determine if you are at risk for diabetes. Another common health issue found in men is arthritis. It’s an ailment that damages the joints. Joint spasticity is a common symptom. With the age, joints start showing wear and tear and start showing symptoms of arthritis. 

4. Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is fairly common among middle-aged men. Many men hear the term ED and automatically think that they have a serious condition. The reality is that ED is a common condition that affects millions of men. It’s estimated that about 30 million men will experience ED at some point in their lives, and it can affect all genders, sexual orientations, and ages.  

There are a variety of causes for ED, including lifestyle choices, health conditions, and medications. And while ED can affect any man, it is more common in men over 40. If you experience ED, the first thing you should do is talk to your doctor. There are many different treatments to help you get to normal. It’s important to remember that you aren’t alone.

You can also check out our article “Best Health Blogs for Men

5. Depression and Anxiety Issues

For a lot of men, it can be challenging to recognize the signs of depression. Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of men every year—and you mustn’t ignore any symptoms. You can learn more about spot signs of depression and anxiety here. Healthy habits like eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and limiting your alcohol intake can help you to avoid anxiety and depression. You can also talk to a professional if you think you may be struggling with these issues. Many men don’t seek help when they need it. If you feel like you’re in a dark place, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone.

 

6. Testosterone Issues in Men

The term “Low T” is used to describe low testosterone levels in the body. Testosterone is the hormone responsible for male development and strength. Low testosterone can affect your physical and mental health, as well as your sex drive. 

While testosterone levels naturally decrease with age, some men experience a drop at a much faster rate. This can lead to several issues related to men and their health. 

While it’s not completely understood how testosterone impacts the health of men, we do know that low levels can lead to mood issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as physical issues such as a decrease in muscle strength, joint pain, and an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. 

When testosterone levels are low, it is important to seek out a specialist and get tested to determine if you have Low T. If so, there are treatments available that can help increase your hormone levels and return you to your former self.

7. Vision Problems

Many men don’t think about protecting their vision until it’s too late. While some eye diseases—like age-related macular degeneration—are more common among seniors, younger men can also develop eye diseases.

Cataracts and glaucoma are two of the most common vision problems affecting men. If you’re in your 30s or older, it’s a good idea to get your eyes checked once every year. If you’re at risk for certain vision issues, like diabetes, it’s even more important to get your eyes checked more often. 

While it’s never too late to get your vision checked, the earlier you catch a potential problem with your eyes, the easier it will be to treat it.

Society has created a stigma around men struggling with mental health and other health issues. Break these stereotypes and look out for any health issues always. The best way for men to stay healthy is to eat a balanced diet and get plenty of exercises. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your health by seeing your doctor regularly. For more updates, follow our blog space. 

 

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