Member Article

Don't be scared of your GP

Advice from Chief Medical Officer of Now Healthcare Group.

It is Men’s Health Week this week (11th – 16th June)

Sadly, far too many men don’t go to their GP when they feel unwell or discover something that doesn’t feel quite right in their bodies. Ignoring what could be a potential issue, could possibly lead to health complications, so it is important to seek advice from your GP as soon as possible.

In the UK, one man in five dies before he reaches 65, which is sad statistic.
Here are some tips to make managing your health less stressful and hopefully increasing life expectancy for our male population.

**• Don’t rely on Dr Google. ** We all know Google is an invaluable tool for advice and information. However, when it comes to your health there can be a lot of information and advice that can be mis-leading and often create an un-necessary cause for concern. A symptom, such as an ache or pain, lump or bump can indicate something completely different from patient to patient. Therefore, it is wise not to spend too much time scouring the internet and take professional medical advice, as soon as is possible.

• You’re not invincible Many men think they’re not going to get ill and/or by ignoring the problem, it’ll simple go away. Often, this is not the case and by visiting a GP to talk about your symptoms, it can put your mind at rest and/or indicate what the problem may be. The quicker this gets sorted and treated, the quicker you can get back to normal. Leaving a health problem, no matter how small, could make things worse, so don’t delay seeing your doctor.

• Prepare for your GP appointment If you’re feeling anxious about seeing your GP and have a few things to discuss, then it is always useful to write down your concerns/symptoms before your appointment. That way if you will make sure you don’t miss anything out, so the GP can correctly diagnosis or provide the correct health advice.

•** GPs are not embarrassed.** Don’t be embarrassed by your health problem, as your GP will have usually seen someone with the same problem (s). Remember, they are highly-trained medical professionals and used to examining body parts and discussing sensitive or uncomfortable body issues frequently.

•** Speak to a virtual GP** The world of digital health is transforming the healthcare system in the UK and helping to ease the burden on the NHS. Companies like Now Healthcare Group, offer GP appointments via mobile technology at a convenient time and location, putting healthcare into the hands of the patient and helping those who find GP appointments uncomfortable, less stressful.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Lisa Wood .