Turning any age that ends in 0 is always exciting. Remember when turning 20 was a big deal? Then turning 30 was a sign of settling down and having a family. Well now that we have hit 40, some things don't work the same way they use to. We don't get out of bed as fast, or that jump shot does flow as smooth as before or cutting the grass has now become our only form of exercise. Yes turning 40 is a great milestone, it should be an age where we start to look at our overall health. You ask what is it exactly that we look for? What questions do we ask the doctor? In my research I found their are 3 medical test that are a must have for both men and women who are in their 40’s and later. These will prevent or stop progression of many potential medical illnesses.
Make a habit of scheduling routine physical tests and exams to stay in tip-top shape.
#1 Check Your Heart’s Health
Although it is assumed heart disease affects men most, it is still the number one killer of women.
The most common cause of heart disease is narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart itself, also called coronary disease that can lead to heart attacks.
Prevention of heart attacks can be done with a few important tests and lifestyle changes.
Heart health is determined through three main tests. The first is your Cholesterol Profile. Which includes a “good” cholesterol (HDL), “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides reading. Normal triglyceride levels are below 150. Levels above 200 are high.
Blood sugar will also be tested, mainly through a fasting blood glucose test. You can test blood sugar at home, but it is still important to get this lab test. Most doctors recommend a glucose test every 3 years after age 45.
The final heart check is blood pressure. Women and men differ slightly in this area. The ideal number is 120/80 for women, while men should be 115/70.
If your blood pressure is higher than your recommended number, it could be a serious warning sign.
#2 Get A Colonoscopy
Once thought to be just a concern for men, we now know that colon cancer can kill either men or women without discrimination. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer, excluding skin cancers.
Unfortunately, statistics show that less than 30% of people over 40 ever get tested. Men and women over age 45 should plan a colonoscopy at least every 2 years and then annually after age 50.
#3 Weight Check
The final test is to make sure you are at a healthy weight. Excess weight increases the workload on the heart. It also raises blood pressure, cholesterol, triglyceride levels and lowers HDL “good” cholesterol.
Diabetes is also a possibility with increased weight. Check with your doctor to find out if you are a healthy weight for your height. If not, they can suggest a diet and exercise plan for you that will add years to your life.
These are all relatively simple tests. It is surprising how many men and women fail to get tested when they should.
If you are 40 or over it is time that you became more serious about your health and scheduled a checkup with your doctor.
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"TEACHING A HEALTHY APPROACH TO A HAPPY EXISTENCE"
Hello Tim, I hope a person will not only control the diabetes but one day he will get rid of it. There are so many researches going on which says diabetes cure is possible. That day is not far when people can get rid of all the known diseases once and for all.
ReplyDeleteRegards,
Charlie
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