Let’s be honest how often do you go to the doctor and get a thorough exam of your whole body? It’s probably not enough to make sure everything is going smoothly. Take ownership of your own health and build up some self awareness. The more you know what’s going on with your body, the more you have the ability to change it. These 6 body checks men should perform regularly will help you take control instead of having to count on doctors as much.
1 – Waist Line
Belly fat plays a significant role in risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Excessive fat, in general, is inflammatory and releases chemicals into the body. It decreases insulin sensitivity and it can also promote a less than desirable lipid profile.
At least once a month check the size of your waist. All you need is a tape measure. Stretch it around your body right above your belly button. The ideal waist for men is 35 inches or less. A waistline that approaches 40 inches or more significantly increases the chances of cardiac disease and diabetes.
2 – Breasts
I know what you’re thinking, “what is this guy talking about? I don’t have breasts!”. Well I’m sorry to be the one to break it to you. Those things that you call pecs actually have some breast tissue.
Any breast tissue, even in men is capable of developing breast cancer. Only a little over 2,000 men a year are diagnosed. The problem is that it’s usually not detected in time because men rarely check for it.
While you’re checking yourself out in the mirror take a few seconds to feel around your chest, nipples and armpits. Your looking for abnormal lumps and colors. If you suspect anything abnormal, see a physician. They may order a mammogram.
3 – Hair
Sorry guys most of us are going to experience some degree of hair loss. That’s not a bad thing. You have to be confident with what you got. The point is to be able to distinguish between natural hair loss and unhealthy hair loss.
Chronic stress can cause hair follicles to stop producing hair and fall out in chunks. This probably means your stress level is way too high. Stress in itself is not the problem. The problem is whatever is causing the stress. Sometimes that can be hard to determine.
Some solutions are to talk to a doctor, psychiatrist, or some other stress management specialist. They can help you pinpoint the cause of stress and keep it under control. You also may want to check out these 7 lifestyle changes that will help you reduce stress.
4 – Urine & Testicles
Men, we all have them so let’s not be sensitive about this. Prostate cancer and testicular cancer are both generated around the genitals. As men get to be over the age of 40, the prostate can give you a fit. The warning signs are an unsteady stream of urine, or a constant feeling of having to use the bathroom.
Those signs don’t necessarily point directly to prostate cancer. The prostate can simply be swollen and cut off flow through the urethra. Get it checked out with your doctor so they can take a look at your prostate.
While you’re in the shower also make sure to check your testes. The technique is similar to checking for breast cancer. Gently palpate the entire surface area to check for abnormal lumps that could indicate cancerous growth.
5 – Skin
Periodically look over your skin to see if new moles are popping up. Fatal melanomas usually start as a mole that gradually darkens or starts to form weird shapes.
People with fair skin and those who spend a significant amount of time in the sun are at the highest risk. If you spot any moles in abnormal shapes or colors get it checked out with a dermatologist. They can easily remove it before it gets dangerous.
6 – Mouth
Examine the inside of your cheeks, gums, and throat for sores that won’t go away. If they stick around too long it might be more than just a little canker soar. Slightly over 40,000 men are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Men have to be more cautious than women. They are twice as susceptible.
If you suspect something is up, go see a physician or dentist to examine it further. If they think it’s necessary they can test it by taking a swab sample.
Besides oral sores, everyday hygiene is crucial. Keep your teeth and gums clean by brushing and flossing multiple times a day. Dental issues can be a result of cardiac, pulmonary, or even digestive problems.
Don’t underestimate the importance of these 6 body checks that men should perform regularly. You can’t only depend on a physician, dentist, or dermatologist to do a full body check and make sure everything is squared away. The time between check-ups is more than enough for problems to arise. Increase your self awareness of your health situation so that you can make necessary changes.
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About Adam Pegg
