Small Steps, Big Impact

November is Men’s Health Month, and is the perfect time for men to focus on their well-being and schedule those annual preventive visits. Regular checkups are essential for staying ahead of potential health issues, from physical concerns like heart disease and diabetes, to mental health challenges that often go unspoken. Taking small steps now can make a big difference in maintaining long-term health and well-being. Hear from family medicine provider Connor Hedstrom, DO, on common concerns men face, as well as practical advice on making impactful lifestyle changes.

Why is it important for men to schedule regular checkups?

It’s easy to overlook your own health when you’ve been focused on work. Scheduling a regular checkup gives you the chance to discuss any health concerns or symptoms you might be experiencing but haven’t addressed yet. It’s also an opportunity to review your medications and seeing if any adjustments or refills are needed. In addition, we can check that you’re up to date on essential cancer screenings, as well as immunizations, which are especially important as we head into flu season. Taking time for a checkup now can help catch any potential issues early and give you peace of mind.

What are the early warning signs of heart disease that men should be aware of?

Heart disease can manifest itself in a wide variety of symptoms, but some of the main ones include shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, trouble walking long distances, chest pain when walking or sitting, or trouble lying flat on your back.

Why is it important for men to talk about mental health?

Mental health is just as important to a person’s overall health as any other factors we address during an appointment. It can be very difficult to talk about for some, but it should be treated just like any other illness like heart disease or diabetes. When we talk about these things we can come up with treatment plans that can provide significant benefits for the individual.

What are the most common health concerns you see in men, and how can they be prevented?

As men age, certain health conditions become more common, including erectile dysfunction, osteoarthritis, cognitive decline, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease. During a checkup, we can discuss which of these you may be at higher risk for, based on your health, lifestyle, and medical history. Mental health concerns, such as anxiety and depression, are also important to address, as they can affect us differently at various stages of life. The best way to prevent many chronic conditions is through healthy lifestyle choices—regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing stress are key to staying healthy long-term.

What advice do you have for men who want to make lifestyle changes to improve their health, but struggle to find time?

I encourage “lifestyle modifications.” I think making small changes that are achievable and sustainable provides more benefit than crash diet and exercise, which can provide short-term weight loss but does not lead to continued improvement in health. Small changes often do not take as much time, and feel much more attainable.

What tips do you have for men who are reluctant to schedule regular checkups?

For some, a doctor’s office is not a comfortable place. But a regular checkup allows you to build a relationship with your provider, which in itself makes appointments less stressful. It’s about creating a partnership in your health. We’re here to support you, not just when something goes wrong, but to help you stay healthy long-term. Taking that first step to schedule an appointment can be the key to making future visits more comfortable and productive.