1 of 8
Whether it’s stigma, cultural pressure, personal uneasiness, or something else, many men don’t feel comfortable talking about their health when problems arise. They may not want to admit a possible medical issue to their partner, friends, family, or even a healthcare provider (HCP).
But keeping symptoms to yourself could turn a small health problem into a bigger one. And if you don’t speak up, you may be deprived of a treatment that could improve your quality of life.
It’s important to confide in your HCP, even when certain topics may seem awkward or uncomfortable. Here are seven questions you might ask, plus answers that could make a difference in your well-being.
Sources: Mayo Clinic. Depression (major depressiv... + 16
- Mayo Clinic. Depression (major depressive disorder). October 14, 2022.
- Martin LA, Neighbors HW, Griffith DM. The Experience of Symptoms of Depression in Men vs Women: Analysis of the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. JAMA Psychiatry. 2013;70(10):1100–1106.
- Mayo Clinic. Male depression: Understanding the issues. February 13, 2024.
- NIH: National Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Reviewed March 2024.
- NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Penile Curvature (Peyronie’s Disease). Reviewed August 2019.
- American Cancer Society. Key Statistics in Breast Cancer for Men. Revised January 18, 2024.
- American Cancer Society. Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men. Last revised April 27, 2018.
- American Cancer Society. Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Men. Last revised April 27, 2018.
- FamilyDoctor.org. Gynecomastia. Updated August 2022.
- Mayo Clinic. Enlarged breasts in men (gynecomastia). October 26, 2023.
- Mayo Clinic. Hair loss. January 19, 2024.
- NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). Reviewed September 2014.
- Mayo Clinic. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). March 1, 2024.
- Harvard Health Publishing. Preserve your muscle mass. February 19, 2016.
- Kim TN, Choi KM. Sarcopenia: definition, epidemiology, and pathophysiology. J Bone Metab. 2013 May;20(1):1-10.
- NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Angina (chest pain): Causes and Risk Factors. Updated July 10, 2023.
- American Heart Association. Angina (Chest Pain). Reviewed November 8, 2021.
