Men are more likely than women to avoid or delay necessary medical care, even when their symptoms disrupt their lives. A recent online survey by the Cleveland Clinic found that 72% of men would rather do household tasks than see a doctor. However, ignoring medical symptoms can lead to riskier consequences, especially as men age.
According to Dr. Steven Lamm, director of the Preston Robert Tisch Center for Men’s Health at NYU Langone, it’s crucial to take new and unexplained health symptoms seriously. This includes becoming familiar with baseline numbers like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, which can help spot current or future heart disease.
Dr. Antonio Fernandez, medical director of the cardiac intensive care unit and preventive cardiology at Hartford Hospital, emphasizes the importance of timing in addressing cardiac conditions. “Catching that early would be better than waiting too long and dealing with a more severe problem.”
Here are five symptoms to watch out for:
1. Unexplained fatigue: Chronic exhaustion can be a sign of heart disease. Research shows that men with moderate-to-high levels of exhaustion had a 2.7-fold increased risk of heart attack within five years.
2. Chest discomfort: A feeling of pressure and squeezing in the chest is a serious indication of medical care. This symptom is often mistaken for anxiety attacks or digestive problems, but it’s essential to seek attention.
3. Swelling in lower extremities: Lower extremity edema can be a sign of heart failure, especially if it becomes chronic. It’s essential to see a clinician if you notice swelling in your feet and ankles.
4. Change in exercise tolerance: If you experience shortness of breath or exertion fatigue more frequently than usual, it’s time to visit a doctor.
5. Loss of morning erections: Erectile dysfunction can be a sign of heart health issues. Dr. Lamm emphasizes the importance of monitoring sexual function, including morning erections, as an indicator of cardiovascular health.
Remember, ignoring medical symptoms or delaying care can lead to more severe consequences, especially for men. It’s essential to take your health seriously and seek attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Source: https://fortune.com/well/article/symptoms-men-over-40-never-ignore