Unpacking Less-Common Men’s Health Issues

Dear Healthy Men: A few weeks ago, you wrote about the most common men’s health issues; including heart disease, prostate cancer, suicide, and diabetes. I hear about them all the time. Are there any other health issues that affect men more than women?

A: You’re absolutely right! We do tend pay attention to on the most common conditions and how to address them by having our blood pressure checked, getting PSA tests, breaking the stigma around mental health, healthy lifestyle, and having a good relationship with a medical provider. The problem is that that focus inadvertently leaves out numerous less-common yet very significant health conditions that can profoundly impact a man’s quality of life. As we wind up this year’s Men’s Health Month, let’s take a look at some of overlooked conditions that disproportionately affect men.

1. Dupuytren’s Contracture

This condition causes the tissue beneath the skin of the palm to thicken and shorten, which eventually causes one or more fingers (most commonly the ring and pinky fingers) to permanently bend into the palm. It’s certainly not life-threatening, but can severely impair hand function, making it hard to do simple things like shaking hands, putting on gloves, or reaching into pockets. The exact cause remains unknown, but genetics, age, and certain medical conditions like diabetes are known risk factors. In its early stages, Dupuytren’s might appear as a painless lump, but as it progresses, it can lead to severe deformity. Treatments range from injections to surgery, depending on the severity and how badly it affects your daily life.

2. Gout

Often stereotyped as “rich-man’s disease,” gout is a strangely common form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when too much uric acid builds up in the body, forming sharp, needle-like crystals in joints, most commonly the big toe. The pain can be excruciating, hitting without warning and often lasting for days. While a diet high in red meat, shellfish and sugary drinks plays a role, other conditions, such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, and obesity contribute. Men, particularly before age 60, are far more likely to develop gout than women. Untreated, gout can lead to joint damage and kidney stones. Managing gout involves dietary changes, medication to reduce uric acid levels, and understanding the triggers so you can prevent flare-ups.

3. Kidney Stones

These are small, hard lumps made of minerals and acid salts that form inside the kidneys and can cause immense pain as they make their way through the urinary tract. While diet, dehydration, and certain medical conditions can increase risk, men are generally more prone to developing kidney stones than women. The pain often comes in waves, striking suddenly in the back or side, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine. Preventative measures include staying well-hydrated, dietary modifications (depending on the type of stone), and sometimes medication. For existing stones, treatments include simply passing them (ouch), sound wave therapy to break them up, and surgery.

4. Sleep Apnea

This condition causes shallow breathing or repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. It often leads to loud snoring, morning headaches, and excessive daytime fatigue (not to mention anger and frustration in anyone trying to sleep nearby). Men, particularly those who are overweight or obese, are at a higher risk. Untreated, sleep apnea may increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. It also significantly impairs quality of life due to chronic exhaustion. Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study; treatment options include lifestyle changes (losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol before bed), breathing apparatuses (such as continuous positive airway pressure—CPAP), and even surgery.

5. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

PAD affects the arteries supplying blood to the limbs, especially commonly the legs, and is caused by atherosclerosis, the same buildup of plaque that affects the heart arteries. Symptoms can include leg pain or cramping during exercise that eases with rest, numbness or weakness in the legs, and coldness in the lower leg or foot. Men, especially those who smoke, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, are at higher risk. Untreated, PAD can lead to serious complications, including limb amputation and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Early diagnosis and management through lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes surgical procedures can prevent progression and improve symptoms.

Clearly, men’s health issues go far beyond cancer, heart disease, and suicide. And we need to acknowledge—and openly discuss—all aspects of men’s health, especially the less common or seemingly embarrassing ones.

Photo by Hush Naidoo Jade Photography on Unsplash