General Guidelines for Health Monitoring of Middle-Aged Men: Self-Diagnosis of External Symptoms and Warning Signals of Major Diseases

Middle-aged men can detect illnesses by observing external characteristics. Dull, brittle hair indicates iron and B vitamin deficiency. A pale complexion suggests a deficiency in folic acid, iron, and vitamin B₁₂. Ear creases are often a sign of arteriosclerosis. Dark circles under the eyes may indicate chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, excessive kidney burden, or chronic gastritis. Dullness of the lips is a sign of weakened pancreatic function; a deep red tongue indicates heat entering the blood, yin deficiency, and excessive fire. The color and texture of fingernails can also reflect health. A white crescent-shaped nail with a bluish tinge may indicate heart disease. Yellowing fingernails are common in vitamin E deficiency and hypothyroidism. Vertical ridges on the nail surface generally appear when overworked, mentally exhausted, or sleep-deprived. Snoring during sleep often triggers hypertension, coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and even sudden death. Early warning signs of serious illnesses must be heeded. Early signs of skin cancer include persistent ulcers and hard nodules. Early signs of diabetes include peripheral neuritis, rhomboid glossitis, and difficulty urinating. Twenty warning signs of early-stage cancer in middle-aged men include painless, progressive lymph node enlargement, persistent indigestion, tinnitus and hearing loss, noticeable changes in warts or moles, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and blood in sputum. Additionally, temporary blindness in one eye is a precursor to stroke. Through scientific self-examination and paying attention to these warning signs, common middle-aged diseases can be effectively prevented and treated.