Critical Health Issues to Look Out For as You Get Older
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There are a lot of health concerns that can arise as we get older. It is crucial to live a healthy life in order to mitigate the impact of ageing on our bodies. While a healthy lifestyle can help prevent many common issues, it is still essential to know the signs to look for so that you can seek an early diagnosis of any health concern.
The earlier you get a diagnosis for a health condition, the better your chances of treating it effectively. If you notice any new aches, pains or unexpected weight gain or loss, it is crucial that you consult your doctor as soon as possible. They will be able to test for any more serious issues and give you advice on how to manage your health.
Vision Loss
Vision loss is a common occurrence as we age. Often you will find that you need glasses to read comfortably. This is a normal part of ageing. You may find that you are more seriously affected as you get older. If you notice unexpected changes to your vision, it is important to consult your optician or doctor to rule out any more serious causes and prevent a worsening of vision loss. Conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts can be treated effectively if caught early.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing pain when moving. The symptoms of arthritis include moving slower than you used to, difficulty standing for long periods and joint pain. There are many treatments for arthritis, from over the counter pain medication to surgery, to correct the affected joint. If you notice any joint pain, ensure you contact your doctor as soon as possible. The earlier you begin treatment for arthritis, the better you will be able to manage the condition.
Dementia
The early signs of dementia are often dismissed as normal forgetfulness. It is normal to forget things like keys and shopping if you are under pressure or stressed. If you notice that you are forgetting more often than usual or are forgetting more important things like dates and people, it is essential to visit your doctor.
You may find that friends or family notice the symptoms of dementia before you do, so it is a good idea to listen if they recommend you see a doctor. While there is no cure for dementia, it can be managed effectively with early intervention.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is a common issue in older men. Occasional occurrences of erectile dysfunction may be down to stress, tiredness or other short-term problems. If you notice that you are struggling with erectile dysfunction more frequently, it may help to look into medicines that can help you overcome the issue.
You should also consult your doctor to ensure there are no underlying issues. Sildenafil tablets are an excellent option for anyone struggling with erectile dysfunction. Discuss your needs with a reputable pharmacist like Chemist Click to help you find the right course of treatment.
Strokes
A stroke can cause weakness down one side of the body and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms can include slurred speech, facial drooping and weakness in the arms. No matter how minor you think your symptoms are, you should immediately call 999 for emergency treatment. The faster a stroke is treated, the more likely you are to make a full recovery.
Flu
The flu can be unpleasant at any age, but it can be even more dangerous for older people. This is due to our immune systems becoming weaker as we age. It is a good idea to keep up to date on your flu vaccination each year and be aware of the common symptoms of flu, including fever, headache, cough and fatigue. If severe flu is left untreated, it can lead to complications like pneumonia.
Heart Disease
Heart disease can be caused by a poor diet and an unhealthy lifestyle. It can also run in families. Signs of heart disease can be challenging to spot, so it is a good idea to get yourself checked out regularly by the doctor to monitor your heart health. You should also know the symptoms of heart attacks, including shortness of breath, chest, jaw or arm pain, and sweating.
This dentist in Kissimmee also shares that according to studies having poor dental health increases the risk of developing heart disease. A compromised dental health increases the chances of getting a bacterial infection in the bloodstream which affects the heart valves.
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a common health concern for older adults. While it can develop at any age, it is most common in the over-40s. Diabetes can often go untreated, as those suffering from it may not even realise they have it. Some of the early signs include excessive hunger or thirst, urinating frequently and fatigue.
If you notice any of the symptoms of diabetes, it is essential to visit your doctor as soon as possible. It may also help to have regular check-ups to monitor your blood sugar and catch the early signs of diabetes before it can progress.
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