The Most Common Emergencies Affecting Men 

Every June, we recognize Men’s Health Month and the importance of preventive care. While many factors can impact men’s health, skipping routine primary care visits can increase the risk of serious health emergencies.

Don't believe it? Hear from Dr. Aluko Gift , an emergency physician and Medical Director of Emergency Medicine at One Brooklyn Health. In this Q&A, Dr. Aluko Gift  discusses some of the most common health emergencies affecting men, the factors that contribute to them, and why regular checkups can make all the difference.

1. From your perspective in the Emergency Department, what are the most common health emergencies affecting men today?

The most common emergencies we see among men include heart attacks, strokes, uncontrolled high blood pressure, complications from diabetes, asthma and COPD exacerbations, substance abuse-related emergencies, blunt or penetrating trauma, and mental health crises. We also frequently see patients presenting with advanced disease because they delayed seeking care.

2. Many men are known for “toughing it out” when they don’t feel well. How often do you see men delay seeking medical care, and what impact can that have on their health outcomes?

We see this regularly. Many men wait until symptoms become severe before seeking medical attention. Unfortunately, delays can mean the difference between a condition that is easily treated and one that becomes life-threatening. Early treatment for conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, infections, and diabetes complications often leads to significantly better outcomes.

3. In the Emergency Department, do you see certain health conditions disproportionately affecting men of color? What factors contribute to those disparities, and how can preventive care help improve outcomes?

Yes. We frequently see higher rates of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and certain complications related to these conditions among African American, Afro-Caribbean, and Hispanic men. Contributing factors include limited access to healthcare, lack of insurance, socioeconomic challenges, language barriers, chronic stress, and historical mistrust of the healthcare system. Preventive care can help identify and treat these conditions before they become emergencies.

4. What are some symptoms men commonly dismiss or ignore that should actually prompt immediate medical attention?

Symptoms that should never be ignored include:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Sudden weakness or numbness
• Shortness of breath
• Severe headache
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool or urine
• Sudden vision changes

Many men attribute these symptoms to stress, fatigue, or aging, when they may signal a serious medical condition.

5. Heart disease remains one of the leading health concerns for men. What warning signs of a heart attack should men and their families be aware of?

Common warning signs include:

• Chest pain, pressure, or tightness
• Pain radiating to the arm, neck, jaw, back, or shoulder
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness

Not every heart attack presents with dramatic chest pain. If symptoms are concerning, call 911 immediately rather than driving to the hospital.

6. Stroke can happen suddenly and without warning. What are the key signs of stroke, and why is it so important to seek care immediately?

Remember the acronym BE FAST:

• Balance problems
• Eye or vision changes
• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call 911

Stroke treatments are extremely time-sensitive. Every minute matters because brain cells are being lost. Early treatment can reduce disability and save lives.

7. High blood pressure is often called a “silent” condition. How can uncontrolled hypertension lead to emergency situations, and what should men know about managing it?

Many people with high blood pressure feel completely normal. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension can lead to damage of small vessels in the body leading to heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, heart failure, and vision loss. Men should know their blood pressure numbers, take prescribed medications consistently, reduce sodium intake, stay physically active, and maintain regular follow-up with a primary care provider.

8. Beyond heart attacks and strokes, are there other preventable emergencies—such as complications from diabetes, injuries, or substance use—that you frequently encounter among male patients?

Absolutely. We frequently see:

• Diabetic emergencies due to uncontrolled blood sugar
• Falls and workplace injuries
• Motor vehicle crashes
• Alcohol-related illnesses and injuries
• Opioid overdoses
• Asthma exacerbations
• Severe infections that could have been treated earlier

Many of these emergencies are preventable through regular medical care, medication adherence, healthy lifestyle choices, and injury prevention strategies.

9. What role do routine checkups, preventive screenings, and primary care visits play in helping men avoid emergency department visits?

Routine healthcare is one of the most effective ways to prevent emergencies. Primary care visits help identify high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, kidney disease, and certain cancers before symptoms develop. Preventive care allows patients to address health issues early rather than waiting until they require emergency treatment.

10. As we recognize Men’s Health Month, what advice would you give men about taking charge of their health and knowing when to seek medical attention?

My advice is simple: your health is an investment, not an inconvenience. Establish a relationship with a primary care provider, know your blood pressure and blood sugar numbers, take medications as prescribed, stay active, and don't ignore warning signs. Seeking medical attention early is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking care of yourself allows you to be there for your family, your community, and the people who depend on you.