Understanding Common Men’s Health Concerns

Some health conditions are more common in men, some affect only men, and some simply go unaddressed more often in men because of reluctance to seek help. Knowing the main concerns and their early signs is the first step to dealing with them.

Heart disease

The CDC states that heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. It can be “silent” and not diagnosed until a man has the signs of a heart attack, an abnormal heart rhythm or heart failure. In 2017 to 2020, about half of men (50.6 percent) had high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

Risk factors: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, excess weight, an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and too much alcohol.

Warning signs of a heart attack: chest pain or discomfort; pain in the jaw, neck, back, arm or shoulder; shortness of breath; nausea; light-headedness. Call 911 immediately.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms but damages arteries over time, leading to heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. A reading below 120/80 mm Hg is normal. Have yours checked at least once a year from age 40, and regularly before then.

Type 2 diabetes

High blood sugar develops gradually. Symptoms, when present, include increased thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, blurred vision and slow-healing sores. Screening is recommended from age 35 for adults who are overweight or have obesity.

Prostate problems

The prostate is a small gland below the bladder that tends to grow with age.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

The NIDDK describes BPH, an enlarged prostate that is not cancerous, as the most common prostate problem in men older than 50. Symptoms include:

• a frequent or urgent need to urinate;
• waking at night to urinate;
• trouble starting, a weak or interrupted stream;
• dribbling at the end of urination.

Prostatitis

Inflammation of the prostate, which can cause pain in the pelvis or groin and painful urination.

Prostate cancer

Often causes no symptoms early on. Men aged 55 to 69 are advised to discuss the benefits and risks of PSA screening with their doctor.

See a doctor about any urinary symptoms. If you cannot urinate at all, or have blood in your urine, fever with painful urination or severe pain, seek care immediately.

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex. The NHS describes it as very common, particularly in men over 40, and the NIDDK points out that it is not a routine part of aging. When it keeps happening, it might be a sign of a health condition that can be treated. Causes include heart and blood vessel disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, certain medicines, smoking, alcohol, stress and depression. Because ED can be an early warning of cardiovascular disease, it is worth a medical assessment, not only for the symptom itself.

Testicular problems

Testicular cancer is uncommon but most often affects younger men. See a doctor about a lump, swelling, heaviness or ache in a testicle. Sudden, severe testicular pain is an emergency.

Mental health

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, men are less likely than women to have received mental health treatment and are more likely to die by suicide. Signs to watch for include:

• anger, irritability or aggressiveness;
• noticeable changes in mood, energy or appetite;
• difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much;
• trouble concentrating, feeling restless or on edge;
• increased worry or stress;
• misuse of alcohol or drugs;
• sadness or hopelessness;
• physical aches or digestive problems without a clear cause;
• risky behavior.

If you are in crisis, call or text 988 in the United States to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Other common concerns

• Colorectal cancer: screening from age 45.
• Lung cancer: the leading cause of cancer death; not smoking is the best protection.
• Skin cancer: check your skin and use sun protection.
• Hair loss: male pattern baldness is common and harmless; sudden or patchy loss should be checked.
• Sleep apnea: loud snoring with daytime sleepiness.
• Low testosterone: can cause low sex drive, tiredness and mood changes, and is diagnosed by blood tests.
• Injuries: men have higher rates of accidental injury; seat belts and protective gear matter.

What you can do

• Have regular checkups and know your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
• Stop smoking and limit alcohol.
• Be active, eat well and keep a healthy weight.
• Sleep seven or more hours a night.
• Talk about symptoms and feelings early.

Home blood pressure monitoring, if your doctor recommends it, is straightforward with a device such as our Automatic Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor.

The bottom line

Most common men’s health problems give you time to act, if you look for them. Get checked, mention symptoms and do not let embarrassment decide. Browse everyday health essentials in our men’s health range.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus. Men’s Health.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Men and Heart Disease.
3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia).
4. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
5. National Institute of Mental Health. Men and Mental Health.
6. NHS. Erectile dysfunction (impotence).