In trying to lead the healthiest life possible as you get older, it’s important to be aware of the most common health issues that can arise, and how to tackle them. Here are seven health problems that people over 50 may experience, and what you can do about it.
1. Arthritis
Arthritis comes in many forms and many degrees of pain levels. It can affect any joint of the body, but it is generalized as joint pain. When dealing with arthritis, you may experience joint swelling, stiffness and pain. Depending on the severity of your arthritis, you may have slight pain and discomfort, or you may even be immobile due to the severe amount of pain. Arthritis can also get worse over time, which is why it’s important to gain advice as soon as you experience symptoms. Your doctor will advise ways to manage any pain.
2. Obesity
Obesity in itself is a high health concern, but it can also promote other health issues, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Obesity means weighing more than is healthy for your height, so it’s important to tackle risks of obesity by staying active, eating healthily and paying attention to your BMI to understand best what your healthy weight should be.
3. High Blood Pressure
Getting older means a lot more wear and tear on your body (unfortunately) and one area that can feel the effects is your blood vessels. As blood vessels age, they may find it more difficult to promote a healthy flow of blood throughout your body, and this can lead to high blood pressure.
To best combat high blood pressure, be sure always to stay active, maintain a healthy weight, eat right, drop any bad habits like smoking, and avoid increased amounts of stress.
4. Age-Related Macular Degeneration
There are many vision problems you might encounter in older age and suffer from compromised vision or vision loss. Age-related macular degeneration is most common in over 50s, and it happens when the macula within your retina wears down and causes vision problems.
To rectify this, be sure to keep on top of your eye doctor appointments, and understand how age-related macular degeneration is diagnosed.
5. Diabetes
Around 1 in 10 people in the US have diabetes. This condition sees a person’s blood sugar level becoming too high, which means that it needs to be controlled. The risks of developing diabetes increase as you age, and diabetes can also contribute to other issues like heart disease or high blood pressure.
Symptoms of diabetes include feeling tired, thirsty and using the bathroom more often, so be sure to book a diabetes test if you suspect any symptoms.
6. Hearing Loss
Many things can cause hearing loss. It could be a lifelong exposure to loud environments, particularly diseases or simply something which happens with your aging genes. Hearing loss can be managed with the right aids, so speak to your doctor if you’re having trouble with your hearing.
7. Bladder Problems
Bladder weakness is a common sign of aging, and can be caused by many things, including muscle weakness or nerve problems. Living with bladder problems can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but you can tackle this by making simple lifestyle changes — like drinking less caffeinated fluids — and making sure you live a healthy lifestyle.
If you suspect any of these seven common health problems, be sure to speak with your doctor.
— Featured photo by Flickr user sergio santos, Creative Commons