Aussie blokes are less likely to see a GP than their female partners, and more likely to wait until a condition is serious before they do seek medical help.
Although we know men don’t like going to the doctor, some careful questions might nudge them in the right direction – or at the very least get them thinking about how they’re looking after their health.
1. ‘Are you OK?’
Male mental health problems are an important topic in Australia today. Asking your partner if they are OK gives them an opportunity to open up.
Even if they say they don’t want to talk, telling them you’re always there if they change their mind leaves the door open. Be sure to ask when you’re in a private setting with no distractions to create a sense of safety. If they do reveal they are struggling, ask how you can support them.
Ask them if they would like you to book an appointment with a GP or another health professional. Reassure them that emotional struggles are normal and seeking help is a strength.
2. ‘Have you had your heart health check?’
Heart disease is the biggest cause of death in Australian men. Everyone over the age of 45 can have a Heart Health Check with their GP, which can predict the likelihood of a stroke or heart attack in the next five years.
If it’s hard to get a GP appointment, consider talking to your pharmacist about heart health.
“Pharmacists can offer convenient health checks such as blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol screening, often without the need for an appointment,” says Deputy Chief Pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart, Kate Gunthorpe. “Results are explained in plain language, helping you understand what the numbers mean… Pharmacists can also provide advice on lifestyle changes, diet, exercise and smoking cessation.”
3. ‘Do you know your family health history?’
Asking your partner about any family history of health issues can be a good reminder for him to stay on top of his health. It might also make it easier for you to spot any early symptoms if they happen. If a disease is inherited, your pharmacist can help with disease management in parallel with your doctors.
“Pharmacists can also conduct medication reviews called a MedsCheck, which is free for eligible patients. They can support safe medication use, checking for interactions and ensuring doses remain appropriate as needs change.”
CARECLINC CONSULT WITH WOMAN’S DAY
Healing cuts and grazes without the guesswork.
I just grab a bandaid when I get a cut or graze…
It’s a common approach, but a little extra attention in those first 24 to 72 hours can make a huge difference. Every year more than 420,000 Australians live with chronic wounds, and many began as small, acute injuries that weren’t managed quite right from the start. Handling a cut, burn or graze properly from day one can mean the difference between healing in a few days versus weeks, while lowering your risk of infection or scarring.
What should I be doing (or avoiding) at home?
It’s easy to reach for “old-school” remedies, but some common habits can actually delay healing. For most minor cuts and grazes, the simplest first step is rinsing the wound under cool, running tap water – there’s usually no need for antiseptics like alcohol on everyday injuries, as they can sting and irritate the healing tissue. Antiseptics such as iodine do have their place for certain wounds. If you’re unsure, check with your pharmacist. For burns, never use ice, butter or toothpaste. Instead, run the area under cool (not cold) running water for 20 minutes. Also, resist the urge to pick at scabs or pop blisters, they act as your body’s natural barrier against bacteria. And always seek medical advice for any serious wounds.
How do I choose the right dressing?
As a general rule, a moist wound environment heals much faster than a dry, scabbed one, which is why a simple, non-stick dressing is almost always a better choice than leaving a standard adhesive plaster on for days. If you’re unsure, it’s always worth popping in to see us. We can take a look at the depth and location of the wound and help you choose the dressing that will actually support your healing process.
What else can you do if I come in with a wound?
We’re here to take the stress out of your recovery by acting as your go-to for hands-on care. Beyond just choosing the right supplies, select TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies can assess your injury in a private consult room, check for early signs of infection and provide tailored advice on pain relief. We can even book you in for follow-up dressing changes, saving you a trip to the GP. But if we determine your wound is deep, bleeding or infected, we will direct you to urgent or specialist care.
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