Many health problems can be attributed to poor lifestyle choices, but there are some health problems that occur naturally with age. Spotting the signs early can often help when treating them. Here are just a few common health problems that occur as we get older.
Vision Loss
As a blogger, my vision is vital. I’m quite sure if I did lose my eyesight, I would (eventually) find a way to still create. I spend hours behind the screen of my computer. I’ve worn glasses since my mid-20s, but I have noticed that as I’ve gotten older, the drugstore readers aren’t working any longer and I require glasses for reading and long-distance.
Getting your eyesight checked can be important for your safety – especially if you drive. Ignoring vision loss will likely just make things worse as your eyes will be straining more. There are also serious conditions such as cataracts to look out for, which can cause blindness if not treated. Your local optician will be able to offer an eye test. I’ve been diagnosed with stigmatisms in both eyes as well as cataracts. What fun, right?
Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is also common for many people as they get older. If you’ve noticed that you’re struggling to hear conversations or having to turn up the TV, it could be a sign that your hearing is going. Getting a hearing test could help to confirm whether you’re suffering from hearing loss. You can click here for advice on what to do if you notice the first signs of hearing loss. A hearing aid is usually the best way to treat hearing loss.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a name given to any form of joint pain and a war that I am currently battling personally. It is most common as we get older and if left untreated it can become agonizing and debilitating.
My mother suffered from rheumatoid arthritis in her elbows, shoulders, and hands. For me, it has attacked both of my knees and it is agonizing some days just to stand up and try to get out of bed.
There is no cure for arthritis, but there are many forms of pain relief available now. My mother was not so lucky to have a choice of different medications 30 years ago. Thankfully, there have been advancements in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis since then. You can find out more about managing arthritis at this site.
Dementia
Dementia is a deterioration of the brain that often results in memory loss or loss of personality. Like arthritis, it is sadly incurable, but there are scientifically-backed ways to slow down and even halt its progression if caught early. Forgetting simple things or getting lost in familiar places can be the first sign of dementia – don’t put off seeing a doctor if you fear the worst.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the biggest killer – it’s responsible for a third of all deaths. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to keep heart disease under control including medication and abstaining from certain activities. Signs of heart disease include chest pain, regular dizziness, and light-headedness. You should see a doctor immediately if you fear that you may have heart disease, and as you get older, it’s a good idea to discuss this with your doctor during your annual exam.
Diabetes
Diabetes is another common disease that occurs as we get older. It’s characterized by high blood sugar levels and an inability to produce insulin. Constant thirst/hunger, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue are a few symptoms to look out for. Diabetes can be easily controlled and can even be reversed in certain cases.
COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term for various respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema. Whilst most common in smokers, (The Man-Thing and I have both been diagnosed) these lung diseases can occur naturally through age. If you’ve noticed that you’re getting short of breath easily or that you’re wheezing, it could be a warning sign. There are many ways to manage and treat COPD. We have been able to manage our condition, but it is something that we will have to live with.
While there are many more things that wear out as we grow older, these are usually the first to make an appearance and let you know that you are getting “over-the-hill.”
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