As we get older, we must all face changes in our bodies which lead to the increased risk of certain health issues. Some can be linked to our behaviour, our routines and our diets, while others can come about quite naturally with very little help from us. As much as we’d like to avoid them, to ignore them, and hope that they will go away if we just pretend they aren’t happening for long enough, these health issues are important and can have very serious consequences if we do not address them. If we do tackle them head on, then there is a very good chance that they can in fact be alleviated, improved or avoided entirely.
So, let’s have a look at some of the most common health issues men face as they age, and what we can do to tackle them.
Cardiovascular Disease
You will almost certainly have heard the phrase cardiovascular disease but you may not be entirely clear on the specifics. Well, it’s not particularly specific, it’s a catch-all term for illnesses affecting your heart and your blood vessels, and it can cover everything from heart disease and strokes to arterial and aortic disease. This is a very common issue for men and women in the UK, but it’s also one of the most avoidable, because it’s often brought on by what we are putting in our bodies and how frequently we exercise. Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, high blood pressure and high cholesterol all contribute to a higher risk factor, as do obesity and inactivity. Keep an eye on your diet, check your blood pressure, and make sure you keep moving.
Arthritis
One of the most common health issues facing both men and women as they get older is arthritis, which affects more than 10 million people here in the UK alone. There are several different kinds of arthritis but the two most common are osteoarthritis, which starts by affecting your joints’ cartilage lining, and rheumatoid arthritis, which leads to painful swelling. If left untreated, arthritis can cause a lot of pain and difficulty moving, so it’s very important that you talk to your GP if you are at all concerned about joint pain. There are treatments including medication and surgery and while there is no cure for arthritis, you can find a way to live a lot more comfortably.
Incontinence
Male incontinence is a far more common health issue that you may have thought given how rarely it is discussed, and while there are several different causes and several different types of incontinence, it is something that many men will face as they get older. The first step towards handling this problem is talking to your GP, as they will be able to help you get to the root of the problem and set you on the right treatment path. With changes to your diet and exercise, and with some pelvic floor exercises, you will be on your way to living more comfortably and confidently. It’s also important to be aware that there are clothing options available that are stylish and comfortable, as discreet men’s diapers are washable, multi-layered and made to look and feel like everyday underwear. Zorbies has more information and a range of elegant, washable and disposable options.
Mental Health And Depression
In recent years, a bigger spotlight has been shone on depression and other mental health issues in men, and it’s about time. It has been estimated that one in eight men in England suffer from a common mental health disorder, and the longer it’s left untreated, the worse it gets. As we get older, it can be harder and harder to talk about the mental health issues we’re dealing with and the contributing factors, such as stress, isolation or substance abuse, only get more powerful. If you feel like you’re struggling, then contact your GP and head online to find some practical ways to make your days a little easier. There is never a good reason to struggle in silence.
Diabetes
You may have noticed that many of these issues can arise from lifestyle and diet choices, and while diabetes is no exception, it is not something you can write off just because you go to the gym three times a week. Once you get past the age of 45 you are already in a higher risk bracket for diabetes, and if there is a history of it in your family, then you need to keep an eye out for the warning signs. If you notice issues like tingling or numbness in your hands and feet, blurred vision, erectile dysfunction, fatigue and needing to urinate frequently, then it’s important that you contact your GP immediately. The earlier you catch it, the better. Medications such as insulin will regulate your blood sugar, and diet and exercise planning will keep you happy and healthy.
Disclaimer: None of this information in this article is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition)