For quite some time, I wasn't sure what I was going to do about my failing health. I knew that I had a few longterm health problems, but resolving the issues felt really difficult. Fortunately, a friend of mine mentioned going to the doctor, so I began looking for medical alternatives. I began working with one doctor who suggested a course of medications and a few lifestyle changes, and I was really enthusiastic about the progress I was making. I know that making health and medical changes helped the quality of my life, and I know it could help you too. Check out this blog for more information.
Did Your Brother Get Diagnosed With Prostate Cancer? 3 Tips To Protect Your Health
There are many factors that go into whether or not a person develops prostate cancer. Yet, having a close family member, such as a brother or father, with the condition increases your risk of having this type of cancer. While there is no exact way to prevent yourself from having problems with your prostate, you can be proactive by using these tips to protect your health starting today.
Cultivate Healthy Lifestyle Habits
As with most types of cancer, you can reduce your risk by simply eliminating habits that interfere with your health. For instance, eating a diet that is full of fruits and vegetables helps to fill your body with antioxidants that help to combat cellular damage. You may also need to reduce your body's exposure to toxins in the environment. For instance, you can wear a respiratory mask if you work with toxic chemicals in your career. Quitting smoking, reducing how much alcohol you drink, and exercising are a few more ways to improve your overall health so that cancer cells are less likely to develop and multiply.
Consider the Need for Screenings
The current recommendations for prostate cancer screenings can vary according to your age, lifestyle, and risk factors. For this reason, it is best to carefully discuss your need for screenings with your physician. If you do decide that screening for cancer is important for your health, then you may be given a blood test that checks for the amount of prostate-specific antigen that is in your body. A digital rectal exam can also allow your physician to check for signs of prostate cancer that warrant further investigation. Keep in mind that you should always ask for your screening results, and be sure to find out if you need to do any follow-up treatment.
Know the Symptoms to Watch Out For
Prostate cancer symptoms tend to be subtle in the early stages, yet you may be able to detect that something is wrong. One of the most common symptoms to experience is a weakened urine stream. You may have trouble starting urination or need to go more frequently. Sexual problems such as difficulty keeping an erection may occur, and you may experience pain in your back or hips.
The realization that someone you love is dealing with cancer is always upsetting. However, prostate cancer does have a good prognosis with early detection and prompt treatment. Taking action now to minimize your risk for developing cancer helps you to look forward to a healthy future.