Previous Story
Women’s Health: 4 Signs To Watch For To Prevent Disease As You Age
Many things get better with age, and you can absolutely be one of them. The key to doing so is staying active and healthy so you can spend your later years continuing to work a job you love or enjoying the fruits of your labor in retirement. Here are four signs of illness to be on the lookout for as you age. Catching them early will help keep you healthy and ready to reach your goals.
Thinning Bones
As we age, our bodies begin to absorb old bone tissue more quickly. Sometimes old bone is absorbed more quickly than new bone can be made, leading to thin, brittle bones. Known as osteoporosis, this condition affects women much more often than men. Osteoporosis leaves bones so brittle they can break even during everyday activities such as walking or standing. To protect yourself, schedule a DEXA scan with your doctor. This painless procedure will check your bone density so you can keep on top of your bone health. Along with eating a proper diet, consider taking a supplement, like those at AlgaeCal, to help your bones.
Appetite Changes
It’s normal to be especially hungry or thirsty on busy days when you’re more active, but pay attention to lasting appetite changes. An increased desire for both food and liquids is sometimes an early warning sign of diabetes. Those with diabetes may also urinate more frequently and experience blurry vision. If you find yourself feeling a constant thirst and eating more than usual, schedule a visit with your doctor. A simple blood test will tell him if you’re diabetic or simply enjoying a ravenous appetite for the good things in life.
Eye Pressure
It’s important to schedule regular eye exams as you age to make sure you don’t lose your vision due to glaucoma. Glaucoma is a gradual increase in the pressure inside your eye. Glaucoma starts with no symptoms, but it can ultimately cause loss of peripheral vision and blindness if left untreated. Treatment is typically a simple matter of eye drops and the glaucoma test takes only seconds to perform. It is estimated that half of the people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. Make sure you’re not one of them.
High Blood Pressure
Monitor your blood pressure periodically to ensure that it isn’t creeping up as you age. Women with hypertension (a blood pressure above 140/90) are far more likely to experience thickening of the arteries, enlargement of the heart, heart attack and stroke. This silent killer causes no symptoms and affects a large number of women. Check your blood pressure regularly to avoid a surprise stroke or heart attack.
Ignore the myth that you have to slow down as you age. Instead, stay moving, live well and check in with your doctor regularly. Doing so will help you stay fit and ready for whatever great things life has in store for you.
