HEALTH ISSUES THAT YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF
By: Bridgett Fornaro
Health issues affecting adults can be numerous and categorized into different groups. These groups can include cardiovascular diseases, mental health disorders, musculoskeletal problems, and other chronic conditions. I will briefly talk about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies. The first disease is cardiovascular disease (heart).
Cardiovascular diseases
Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death in adults between the ages of 35 and 50. Hypertension, high cholesterol, and smoking are major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. This can include heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. According to Studies from the American Heart Association, approximately 1 in 5 deaths among adults aged 35-49 is due to cardiovascular disease.
Some symptoms of cardiovascular diseases may include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, fatigue, and pain or numbness in the arms or legs. By going to the doctor, getting a diagnosis is typically made through a combination of lots of things. This can include medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, stress test, and blood tests.
Some treatment options for cardiovascular diseases can include lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, and stress management), medications (e.g., blood thinners and beta blockers), and procedures (e.g., angioplasty and bypass surgery). There are lots of prevention strategies, which can include maintaining a healthy weight, being involved in regular physical activity, eating a well-balanced diet, not smoking, and being able to manage stress.
Mental health disorders
Mental health disorders are very common among adults between the ages of 35 and 50. anxiety disorders, depression, and substance abuse are among the most prevalent conditions. Symptoms of mental health disorders may include mood changes (e.g., irritability, mood swings), anxiety or fear, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite or weight, and social withdrawal.
A diagnosis is typically made through a combination of three things. Medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as psychological evaluation, neuropsychological tests, and imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT scan). Treatment options for mental health disorders include psychotherapy (cognitive-behavioral therapy CBT), medications (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications), and support groups (group therapy).
Prevention strategies include practicing stress management techniques (meditation, yoga), engaging in regular physical activity, building strong social connections, and getting enough sleep.
Musculoskeletal problems
Musculoskeletal problems are common among adults. Back pain, osteoarthritis, and tendonitis are among the most common conditions. Symptoms of musculoskeletal problems may include pain or stiffness in the back or joints, limited mobility or range of motion, swelling or redness in the affected area.
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, or even a CT scan. Treatment options for musculoskeletal problems include lifestyle modifications (stretching, exercise), medications (e.g., pain relievers), and physical therapy.
Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, stretching and strengthening exercises, and proper lifting techniques. For example, for proper lifting, wear a belt while lifting. This can prevent back and hernia issues down the road.
Chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common among adults between the ages of 35 and 50. Symptoms of chronic conditions may include shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, fatigue, weight loss, and recurrent infections.
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (e.g., X-ray, CT scan), and pulmonary function tests. Treatment options for chronic conditions include medications (insulin for diabetes), lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise), and procedures (e.g., lung transplantation for COPD). Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and not smoking.
Overall, health issues that affect adults can be created in different ways. They can also be categorized into lots of different groups. Having a clear understanding of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies for each condition is important for promoting healthy aging. By making lifestyle modifications and practicing preventive measures, individuals can reduce their risk of developing these conditions and live a healthy and active life.
Other Ways to Connect
We hope you found this article very informative and that it brings some awareness to some of the issues mentioned.
Do you have any thoughts? Please connect with us on Facebook and Instagram and let us know!
If you would like to learn more about upcoming events, sign up to receive our quarterly newsletter here.
Check out some of our other blog posts here.
Sources:
1. National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). Health and aging. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/health-and-aging
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Key health indicators for adults aged 35-50. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyaging/indicators/index.html
3. Kahn, R., & Cooper, L. (2019). Health disparities in adults aged 35–50: A population-based study. American Journal of Public Health, 109(3), 421-428. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2018.304655