Tough Guy: Cenla Health - Alexandria, Pineville, Louisiana

Men are notorious for ignoring warning signs or symptoms that could lead to healthier outcomes with early detection and treatment.Cancer is a devastating disease, but there are warning signs that should be promptly reported to your physician, including:

• Pain or difficulty urinating/Blood in the urine.
• Testicular lumps – perform a testicular self exam monthly.
• Pelvic pain that persists more than a few days or other pain that doesn't go away.
• Sores, lesions or growths on the penis.
• Persistent GI Upset or Bowel Changes - diarrhea, bloody stools, or significant change in usual bowel habits.
• Breast Changes – men can have breast cancer…..watch for any discharge, lumps, skin dimpling or any other significant change in breast tissue.
• Unintended weight loss of 10 pounds or more.
• Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath unrelated to another condition.
• Fatigue that limits your normal daily activities.

Don't be a cancer statistic! Pay attention to changes in your body and report them to your physician right away.

Dr. Brian Smith is in Family Practice at Hardtner Medical Center in Olla, Louisiana.

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