Men’s health is always important, but June is officially Men’s Health Month. 

This is a time for us at CareOne to better educate men about their health, and raise awareness about common health problems. It’s also one part celebration of wellness for men around the world, and one part health campaign. At CareOne, the unique challenges of men’s health are always a priority. But during this month, we devote a little extra time to help raise awareness for our male patients and residents at our assisted living communities, long-term care facilities, and other locations.

There are many ways you can choose to observe Men’s Health Month. But no matter what you do, education is the cornerstone. In honor of that mission, CareOne is reviewing some common health problems for men and tips for staying healthy.

Common Men’s Health Problems and Tips for Staying Healthy

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among American men. Heart disease can come in a variety of forms, but in all instances it can be serious. Even minor heart complications can cause large scale health problems.

Chest pain and shortness of breath are two of the most prominent signs of potential heart problems. Numbness or pain in your neck, jaw, or extremities can also be signs that something is wrong.

Heart disease can be caused by a number of different factors. In some cases it can be genetic, while other instances are brought on by lifestyle habits. Proper nutrition and exercise are the most effective measures when it comes to preventing heart disease. 

Exercise, particularly cardio exercise, is great for heart health. When you exercise, your heart rate becomes elevated. With consistent, careful exercise, your heart can become stronger over time. However, if you experience heart problems, it is very important not to overwork yourself during exercise. Take things slow and work at your own pace for the best results.

In order to assist our patients and residents in their fitness journey at any age, CareOne makes our Forever Fit Program available. This is a strength and conditioning program for seniors. It consists of two workouts per week and allows seniors to improve their fitness and health. Best of all, workouts are done at CareOne’s state-of-the-art fitness facility. 

Nutrition also plays an important role in heart health. Foods that are high in fat, like red meat and processed meat are closely linked to heart disease. Fried foods and foods that are high in sodium and sugar are also often associated with heart disease. At CareOne, we take nutrition seriously with our culinary experience. With house-made protein super smoothies, USDA certified meats, vegan and vegetarian dishes, we know healthy heart care starts from the inside out. 

Recovering from cardiovascular disease can often be a highly involved process. CareOne offers a wide variety of healthcare services for those suffering with or recovering from heart and cardiovascular ailments. Our world-class post-acute & rehabilitation care can offer personalized recovery plans for those on the mend from serious heart episodes. For patients who require ventilators due to a cardiopulmonary health issue, CareOne offers industry leading ventilator weaning programs so that you or your loved ones can return to living their life freely and healthily more quickly.

Liver Disease

Liver disease is also more common in men than women, though by no means is this problem exclusive to men. That said, your liver plays a very important role in your overall well-being. Basically, the liver controls what nutrients are processed in your body during the digestive process. If your liver begins to malfunction, your body struggles to get the nutrients it needs.

Excessive alcohol consumption is commonly linked to liver disease, though this is not the only cause. Specifically, alcohol is linked to cirrhosis, in which the liver becomes damaged and covered by scar tissue, preventing it from functioning properly. Symptoms of liver disease like cirrhosis include swelling, itchy skin, yellowish eyes or skin, abdominal pain, vomiting, and chronic fatigue.

Monitoring your diet is one of the best things you can do to prevent liver disease. As mentioned, cutting back on alcohol is one very big step men can take to improve liver health. In addition to alcohol, many fatty foods are also associated with liver disease. Cutting back on these high-fat foods is a good way to prevent liver disease. Additionally, making good choices with a healthy food regimen through CareOne can make a world of difference.

Cancer

Cancer can affect anyone indiscriminately. However, some cancer types are more prevalent among certain demographics. For instance, many people are aware that women have a higher risk of breast cancer than men. However, it is a myth that men cannot develop breast cancer. Though less common, it is estimated that roughly 2700 men are diagnosed with breast cancer annually.

The three most common forms of cancer in men are lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Lung cancer has long been the most common form of cancer in men and is largely associated with cigarettes. Avoiding or quitting smoking is the #1 way to avoid lung cancer.

Colorectal and prostate cancer can occur more sporadically and are more difficult to detect. Symptoms can include changes in bowel movements or urination, as well as abdominal pain and chronic fatigue. However, the most important thing men can do to detect these diseases is to receive regular cancer screenings. Men over the age of 50 are encouraged to receive annual cancer screenings. Men younger than 50 may not need to be screened as often, but should still do so every couple of years.

Cancer treatment is one of the most crucial services any healthcare provider can offer. At CareOne, we offer a wide range of options to help those who are fighting or have fought some form of this awful disease. Our expert palliative care services can provide personalized care and peace of mind for those fighting or recovering from cancer. These services are also a tremendous boon for those who have had cancer and their families.

Diabetes

Diabetes tends to affect more men than women. There may be several reasons for this, but higher levels of visceral fat in men are believed to be linked to diabetes rates. Diabetes can be difficult to detect, but symptoms include persistent thirst and hunger, lightheadedness, fatigue, and numbness in the extremities.

Aside from genetics, the most common risk factors of diabetes are weight and inactivity. Because of this, diet and exercise are once again highly effective ways to avoid diabetes. Diabetes is caused by irregular insulin levels in the body. Proper nutrition (avoiding fatty and processed foods) and exercise help the body regulate insulin levels, lowering the risk of diabetes.

Part of the comprehensive healthcare plan included at all CareOne assisted living communities is an emphasis on nutrition and well-being. By prioritizing nutrition and activities for our residents, CareOne’s staff help reduce the risk of age-related health complications and conditions like diabetes.

Depression and Mental Illness

Statistics indicate that more women deal with feelings of depression than men annually. However, researchers have pointed out that women are also much more likely to seek mental health support than men. Part of Men’s Health Month is acknowledging the importance of men’s mental health. That starts with the de-stigmatization of seeking mental health support.

There are many potential signs of depression, and it can impact everybody differently. 

Mental health is a crucial, and often overlooked aspect of overall health. CareOne is founded on a philosophy of compassionate healthcare for all our patients and residents. By taking a fully-rounded, comprehensive approach to healthcare, we strive to make sure that mental well-being is prioritized as it should be. Health, and men’s health, are not about any single piece of the puzzle. It takes a big picture approach to provide exceptional quality of life for every individual. 

Whether you’re looking to improve your health or the health of a loved one, contact us today and learn more about the incredible services CareOne has to offer.