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Click here for Common Health Concerns of Women
 | Baldness
What It Is
Hereditary hair loss; the hair follicles gradually shrink and stop producing new hair. Because the life of a hair is about 4-5 years, it takes several years for baldness to be completed.
Treatment
Hair can be transplanted from another part of the head; in some cases, the drug minoxidil can stop hair loss.
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Hernia
What It Is
A protrusion of an organ or part of an organ through the walls of the cavity that contains it; occurs most often with age, obesity, muscle weakness, and hereditary factors.
Treatment
Minor surgery may be required; a truss is sometimes helpful. Preventive measures include a high fiber diet and careful lifting.
Hypertension
What It Is
Also called high blood pressure; it occurs when the blood exerts too much force on the walls of the blood vessels. Hypertension often has no noticeable symptoms, yet is a leading risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
Treatment
Physicians often prescribe a program of exercise, a low-fat, low sodium diet and, in some cases medication.
Impotence
What It Is
The inability to have or maintain an erection; may be caused by depression, alcoholism, diseases such as diabetes, and some medication.
Treatment
Physical causes can often be treated medically or surgically; a sex and marriage counselor can help with psychological causes.
Infertility
What It Is
Inability to conceive a child, due to a low sperm count or other reproductive problems; may be caused by age, exposure to chemicals, or past diseases.
Treatment
Treatment may range from minor surgery or hormone injections to a simple change in sexual technique.
Jock Itch
What It Is
Fungal infection in groin area, similar to athlete's foot; symptoms are chafed, itchy or irritated skin in groin, inner thighs or pubic or anal areas. Often infects men who perspire heavily or are obese.
Treatment
Over-the-counter medication containing miconazole can be effectively used, as directed.
Mid-Life Crisis
What It Is
The questioning of one's life at middle age that may lead to a major transition, such as job change or divorce; symptoms can include irritability, greatly increased or decreased sexual drive, or impulsive behavior.
Treatment
By learning to accept your feelings, you can use this transitional period as an opportunity for creative change.
Prostate Problems
What It Is
The three most common prostate problems are prostatitis, a swelling of the prostate; benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH (excess tissue growth in the prostate that commonly occurs as men age); and prostate cancer(the growth of abnormal cells in the prostate). Prostate conditions usually result in urinary problems.
Click here to learn more about:
Symptoms of Prostate Disease
Facts about Prostate Health
What's All the Talk About Prostate Cancer?
Treatment
Treatment varies with physician's diagnosis. A low-fat diet will decrease the risk of prostate cancer.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
What It Is
STDs are actually a variety of diseases that include syphilis, gonorrhea, herpes, AIDS contracted through sexual contact; symptoms may include unusual discharge from the penis, pain, genital sores or itching. Sometimes no symptoms are apparent for years.
Treatment
Treatment varies depending upon the STD, but may include antibiotics and other medications if diagnosed early. There is no cure for AIDS.
Click here to learn more about:
Sexually Transmitted Disease
Stress
What It Is
The body's response to change; may include the release of hormones, elevated heartbeat and increased blood pressure; can result in irritability, sleeplessness, and impaired health.
Treatment
A healthy diet, regular exercise, and relaxation may be helpful. A stress management class can teach you relaxation techniques.
Click here to learn more about:
Stress Basics
Relieving Stress
Exercise and Stress
Stress Management: A Guide for Senior Leaders
