What to Watch Out For As You Grow Older
It’s easy to think you’re indestructible while you’re young, but having kids helps you realize that you’re actually just as vulnerable as the next person and that you need to start taking better care of yourself, if for no other reason than the sake of your family’s safety. Of course the easiest way to maintain physical and mental health is to stick to the tried-and-tested guidelines of a healthy lifestyle: eat right, exercise regularly, avoid tobacco products, and limit alcohol intake. However, as you grow older, you increase your risk for certain health issues; while some of these issues may only be fleeting, it’s still important to keep an eye out for them. Take a look at things you should be on the lookout for as you get older.
Chest/lung issues
Without our lungs, we’d die. It’s vital to monitor your breathing and identify any chest or lung issues. It is possible that you are suffering from a chest infection; yet, it is also possible that you are experiencing the late onset of asthma, COPD, or even, more horrifyingly, early lung cancer. By making a note and going to your doctor as soon as possible, you can make sure that nothing gets out of hand and that you stay as healthy as possible.
A change in bowel habits
Loose bowels aren’t uncommon, but if you’re noticing very irregular movements, this could be a sign of something more serious, like colorectal cancer. Colonoscopies are usually the first point of the diagnosis, so don’t put it off!
Joint pain
Joint pain is something that affects virtually everyone at some point in their lives. There is usually an injury involved, and a week or two of rest and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) will alleviate the discomfort. But if you have joint pain on a regular basis, you should always go see a doctor because it could be a sign of arthritis or brittle bones. Back, knee, and ankle pain is common because those body parts bear the brunt of your body’s weight. Check it out so you can avoid having to get surgery or other joint support treatments.
Diabetes-indicating signs and symptoms
Having diabetes means your body does not process sugar properly. Depending on the type of diabetes you have, you may be recommended to watch what you eat, and in certain situations, you may be required to inject insulin into your body in order to ensure good regulation. Diabetes can develop at any age, but it is more common in older people, so it’s important to be on the lookout for signs like dizziness, fatigue, frequent water infections, excessive appetite, and weight loss. A simple blood test will inform your doctor whether or not you have diabetes, and from there they can provide you with the appropriate care.
Unusual feelings
Lastly, one of the best things about our bodies is that they can tell us when something is wrong. While these unusual feelings are usually nothing to worry about, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you get a regular check up each year, as well as anytime you’re feeling ill, to ensure you’re living the healthiest life possible!
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