Symptoms no man should ignore

A lump on the testicleTesticular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 20 to 35. Nearly 2,000 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year in the UK, and regular self-examination is recommended.

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If you notice a lump or abnormality in your testicles, first thing to do is see your doctor. Most testicular lumps are not cancer, but it is essential to have any abnormalities checked. This is because treatment for testicular cancer is much more effective if the cancer is diagnosed early.

Moles

Check all moles regularly and be aware of any change in colour or shape, or if they start bleeding. Most changes are harmless and are due to a non-cancerous increase of pigment cells in the skin. See your doctor if a mole looks unusual or becomes itchy. It can then be checked and removed if necessary. Could you have a cancerous mole and not know it? Find out now.

Feeling depressed

If you’re depressed, you may lose interest in things you used to enjoy. If you’ve been having feelings of extreme sadness, see your doctor at once. Depression is a real illness with real effects on your work, social and family life. Treatment usually involves a combination of self help, talking therapies and drugs. Depression is more common in women, but men are far more likely to commit suicide. This may be because men are more reluctant to seek help.  Things such as financial and job insecurity, redundancy and debt can all affect mental wellbeing.

Trouble urinating

Every man has a prostate gland and it’s crucial to his sex life..When the prostate is enlarged, it can press on the tube that carries urine from the bladder. This can make it hard to pass urine, which can be a sign of prostate disease, including cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Nigeria.  More men are being diagnosed with it every year. Other symptoms include pain or burning when you pass urine and frequently waking up in the night to pee. If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Impotence

Most men have problems getting or keeping an erection (impotence) at some point. If your erection problems last for several weeks, you need to see a doctor. Generally, lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and exercise, can correct the problem. Some men may need medication, others may not. It may be necessary to assess your general health because impotence, also known as Erectile Dysfunction, can be a sign of more serious conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure. Half of all men over 40 have had trouble getting an erection at least once.