Men’s health issues highlighted in June

  • Published
  • By Dylan Laurie
  • 16th SOW Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla --  June is National Men’s Health Month. For those who aren’t sure if their health status is what it should be, the most important thing you can do is see a doctor as soon as possible for a complete physical.

However, being men, sometimes pride steps in and makes it difficult to talk to a doctor about issues or symptoms that left unchecked can be life-threatening. The following are some questions to discuss with a physician, according to MSN Health and Fitness, especially if it has been over a year since the last appointment.

- Loss of capabilities. This covers a wide range of possibilities. The doctors can only help if they know what the problem is.

- Fears. One of the hardest things to deal with is the diagnosis of a serious illness. Established phobias and misconceptions can lead to further delay in identification and treatment of an existing medical condition.

- Travels. Especially if you are showing vague "flu-like" symptoms, tell your doctor about any recent trips. Early detection is always an important factor in treating a condition effectively.

- History. Any recent diagnosis of serious disease in a family member should be brought up. Doctors agree family history is critical.

- Medications. Talk about over-the-counter and prescription pills and supplements you take. These medications and supplements can have dangerous interactions with conventional prescriptions. Bring a list or even the pill bottles themselves.

- Bad habits. If you smoke or drink heavily, quit. This is just common sense.

- Stress. If you’ve been depressed or under stress both get channeled into fatigue, insomnia, or irritability, so the root cause may get buried under the symptoms.

Also, with the onset of summer, there are several risk factors to be especially aware of to ensure a healthy, happy season. These include, but are not limited to, mosquito bites, food-borne illnesses, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, skin rashes and sunburn.

Furthermore, the health and wellness center offers a wide variety of classes geared towards improving quality of life through healthier habits, including diet and exercise. All classes are offered free of charge at Building 90232, classroom A.

It’s never too late to take an interest in one’s health. For your own sake and those who love you, commit to transform for the better. Sometimes small changes can make big differences.