Taking control of your health is important when spotting certain symptoms in men. Such symptoms may simply be natural signs of aging or a condition that is easy to treat, but it is important to rule out any serious causes. In some cases, symptoms may indicate a serious illness, and early recognition and treatment of the problem can often improve a patient’s chances of a full recovery. Some symptoms that men should pay extra attention to include: Getting frequent heartburn Many people sometimes experience heartburn after eating fatty foods or pasta, but if heartburn occurs after every meal, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be suspected ). This condition is also known as acid reflux. When acid reflux occurs, acid content from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus. If this condition is not treated, stomach acid can eat away at the tissues of the esophagus and cause irritation or ulcers. In rare cases, chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lead to cancer of the esophagus. Symptoms of GERD can also mimic other rare but treatable problems. In some cases, in addition to heartburn, the patient may actually have heart problems. Excessive snoring Chronic, loud snoring may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. In this condition, the throat muscles relax and temporarily block the airway while the person sleeps. This can cause breathing problems and disrupt sleeping habits. These constant sleep interruptions can make you feel sleepy or tired even after getting enough sleep. If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart failure, or abnormal heart rhythms. Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are also linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes. Breast Lump Although breast cancer is a disease that mostly affects women, there are rare cases where it is also seen in men, mostly between the ages of 60 and 70 years. It is important to see a doctor if you feel a lump or thickening of the breast tissue, or if the nipple darkens, reddens or starts to discharge. Early diagnosis is key to treating the condition. Bibliography: Muraki I, et al. Sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes Wall H, et al. Body mass index and obstructive sleep apnea in the UK: A cross-sectional study of the over-50s Healthline. Health Symptoms Men Shouldn’t Ignore