Taking care of your health goes beyond diet and exercise. It’s important to pay attention to the hidden aspects of your well-being that require professional guidance. Your healthcare team plays a crucial role in helping you assess and manage these areas. Here are four impactful steps every man can take to ensure long-term health and vitality.
Actively Manage Your Health
Start with the basics: schedule an annual physical examination. Surprisingly, a 2021 survey revealed that only 54% of men between 25 and 45 years old had seen a doctor in the past year. If you fall into the remaining 46%, it’s time to make an appointment. Regular check-ups allow you to understand your overall health and make informed decisions. Identifying conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol is crucial for effective management. Ignoring these conditions can lead to serious health issues in the long run. By working with your doctor, you can develop a personalized treatment plan to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Know When to Seek Medical Care
Actively managing your health also involves recognizing when to seek medical attention outside of scheduled visits. Pain, digestive issues, and respiratory symptoms should not be ignored. Pain is your body’s signal that something is wrong, and seeking medical advice is essential. Gastrointestinal symptoms like heartburn, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea should be addressed promptly. In the case of respiratory symptoms, especially in the era of Covid-19, it’s advisable to use telehealth options or consult your doctor early on. Prompt treatment can alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Learn About How You Can Save on Healthcare
Saving on healthcare goes beyond insurance coverage. It’s important to have open conversations with your doctor about your financial situation, particularly when managing chronic conditions. Prescription medications can be expensive, but your doctor can provide alternatives or recommend resources to make them more affordable. Services like GoodRx offer prescription savings, online doctor visits, and reliable health information to help you make informed choices. By exploring available options and discussing affordability with your healthcare provider, you can ensure access to necessary care.
Don’t Ignore Your Mental Health
Men often face pressure to handle mental health issues independently, making it difficult to seek help or recognize symptoms of depression and other mental illnesses. Remember, symptoms of depression can manifest differently in men than in women. It’s essential to rule out any underlying physical causes before seeking mental health support. If no physical issues are found, don’t hesitate to request a referral to a mental health professional. Ignoring mental health concerns can have significant impacts on your overall well-being, potentially leading to harmful coping mechanisms. Addressing these feelings early on can prevent further complications and ensure a healthier future.
Remember, if you ever experience thoughts of self-harm or are in a crisis, seek help immediately. Contact the National Suicide and Crisis Line at 9-8-8 for immediate assistance.
By following these four simple healthcare moves, you can prioritize your well-being and make proactive choices for a healthier and happier future.