From 30 to 60 years: Check up here for your health
At 30, it's the problem with the pregnancy. At 40, we complain about our eyes and back. At 40 we have to worry about menopause and, at 60, increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. Hence it is important to prevent, according to the stage of life in which we find ourselves, the most common health problems.
It is inevitable that we will lose some capacities as the years go by (fortunately we have won others as well ...). We are aware of this in small things, especially when we are approaching 30. At this age, the body begins to show subtle signs that the golden times when everything was in order and recovered quickly are already there. Prevention and a healthy lifestyle are the best passports for enviable health at any age. Thinking about it, we've gone through the problems most likely to affect her at various stages of her life.
At 30 years
At this age, most women have the first child and hormone production begins to decrease.
Fertility problems
There are about 500,000 infertile couples, which is equivalent to 10% of the Portuguese population. The incidence of female infertility, in particular, has been increasing a lot in the last years, with several factors because, the most important being the fact that each time has children later. The average age of the first child is around 30 years, and if up to 35 the probability of the woman becoming pregnant each month is 20%, from the 35 that percentage drops radically. To get an idea, at 38, only about 10%. In addition to the late age of the first child, there may be other causes for female infertility;hormonal problems, ovulation disorders, pelvic or tubal disorders...
The solution
It may include hormonal treatments, artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, microfertilization or cryopreservation (embryo freezing and sperm).
In cases of gynecological, hormonal or malformations factors, it is important to disregard them and treat them in a timely manner by making regular visits to the gynecologist. But there are other factors that can be associated with infertility, such as stress, poor eating habits, smoking, and caffeine. Many women who want to become pregnant lack folic acid and vitamin E, essential for cell multiplication and fetal development. Where to find them? Folic acid is present in whole grains, oranges, and green leafy vegetables; and vegetable oils are rich in vitamin E. Also adopt taking a daily vitamin supplement with these substances.
Pregnancy Complications. Gestational diabetes
It is very important to detect it and treat it through diet or insulin administration to avoid problems for the mother and baby. This diabetes usually goes away after childbirth; the problem is that half of the pregnant diabetics will tend to develop type 2 diabetes later. Surveillance and prevention are essential since the associated complications (myocardial infarction, blindness, and leg ulcers) are serious and often evolve silently.
The solution
Eat a balanced diet (and do not go long without eating), do not gain weight if you already suffer from obesity; if your pre-pregnancy weight was normal, do not gain more than 12kg, and exercise regularly. If you have had diabetes during pregnancy, keep an eye on your blood sugar levels after childbirth. Avoid being too fast for a long time and do not eat sugary foods that cause a peak in blood glucose levels.
Urinary infections
They are very common and can affect the mother and the baby, especially when there is contamination of the urinary tract by bacteria of the intestinal flora. The propensity for infections increases in pregnancy since urine is richer in nutrients that facilitate the proliferation of bacteria and the uterus occupies more space and may partially obstruct the urethra.
The solution
Drink lots of water, do not hold urine and go to the bathroom as soon as you feel like it and wear tight cotton underwear. Go to the doctor as soon as you have symptoms: frequent urination and small amounts, pain when urinating, and blurred urine.
Baby blues
Hormonal changes during and after pregnancy can trigger depressive symptoms after birth. In the first month, the 'melancholy of childbirth', with symptoms of lethargy, anxiety, and irritability, is normal, but if symptoms persist, you should see your doctor because antidepressant therapy may be necessary.
The solution
Psychological preparation for motherhood and family support are fundamental to face the changes in your body and your lifestyle. If you have a depressive history, be especially careful and do not hesitate to seek help to answer questions and fight anxiety.
Thyroid Diseases
The thyroid is the largest endocrine gland in our body and produces hormones essential to the body's balance. In the postpartum period, if you feel tired, depressed, have hair loss, dry skin and brittle nails, this may indicate that the thyroid is malfunctioning and causing your hypothyroidism. This problem tends to persist and in need of medication permanently with thyroxin, a synthetic hormone. Be still aware of symptoms of hyperthyroidism (nervousness, anxiety, tachycardia, and weight loss).
The solution
Eat fresh foods and regularly consume fish and seafood, green vegetables, seaweed (e.g. kombi seaweed, which is on sale in natural produce houses), cereals and iodized salt.
Take care with...
. Excess tobacco, alcohol, and sun.
You have to be careful at all times, but at this age, the mistakes start to get more expensive and it is harder to recover, so it is best not to abuse.
. The tendency to gain weight after pregnancy.
If you are not disciplined it can be difficult to reverse this trend, which, coupled with the rise in cholesterol, has detrimental effects on your health.
. The propensity for anemia.
It is higher in women because of menstruation and poor diet. Do regular analysis to get rid of it.
At the age of 40
The eyes show signs of tiredness; the muscle mass decreases and its defenses weaken.
Presbyopia
The so-called 'tired sight' starts at age 40. It gives headache and difficulty seeing at close range, because the lens becomes less elastic with age and the ocular muscles lose flexibility.
The solution
There is no surgery to correct it permanently. Interventions (presbylasik and introduction of intraocular lens) still do not give guarantees. Wear reading glasses or contact lenses.
Tendinitis and back pain
Tendonitis in the hands, shoulders and ankles are the most common. Women are more affected because their musculature is less developed. Muscle mass declines from this age, especially if you do not exercise regularly, which removes protection to the joints and may facilitate the onset of osteoporosis later.
The solution
Maintain good posture, especially when working at a computer. Do not walk with your bag too heavy, or use it on the same side. Get regular exercise.
Fibromiomas
They are benign tumors that form on the wall of the uterus. Its appearance seems to be linked to estrogen levels, but family predisposition, absence of pregnancy and obesity favor its appearance. Pain, swelling of the abdomen and heavy bleeding during menstruation are the main complaints, but there may be no symptoms.
The solution
Be aware of your body and go to the gynecologist regularly. Most fibromiomas do not require treatment, but in some cases hormone therapy or surgical removal may be necessary.
Take care with...
DIABETES. If there is a family history, make periodic blood glucose count. Values greater than 1.26g / l are indicative of diabetes, but above 1.10g / l are signs of a sugar intolerance that can be converted into diabetes later. Exercise regularly and consume low glycemic index foods, such as vegetables and whole grains.
. O CHOLESTEROL. Here too the hereditary factor has influence, but eating habits can make a difference. Reduce consumption of animal fats and increase omega-3 foods such as green leafy vegetables, olive oil and fish (especially herring, mackerel, sardines and salmon). These measures can be worth more years of quality preventing cardiovascular diseases.
VARISES. In addition to the hereditary factor, pregnancy can aggravate them. Prevent their worsening since there may be a risk of thrombosis due to vein clogging: avoid standing too long and remember that the pill is an aggravating factor.
At age 50
The hormones no longer protect it, it is more exposed to disease and the risk of cancer increases.
Menopause
It happens around 52/55 years, and marks the end of the woman's reproductive capacity. The decrease in the production of estrogens and progesterone is not necessarily problematic and some women make this transition in a quiet way. This period, called the climacteric or per menopause, has a very variable duration: it can last for two years or prolong for six or seven. The most recurrent complaints are night sweats, hot flashes, insomnia, and fatigue. Women more sensitive to hormonal swings may experience loss of libido, swollen body, migraines, and mood swings.
The solution
Replacement hormone therapy (HRT), with the administration of synthetic estrogens, alleviates the symptoms associated with this period, but advocates its use for a limited time, from five to six years at the most. Alternatively, you can opt for phytoestrogens, soy-based (is flavones), but always under medical indication. Calcium supplements associated with physical activity help prevent osteoporosis.
Gynecological Cancers
From this age, the risk of breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers increases greatly. The former remains the leading cause of death for women in this age group, but its early detection can prevent this outcome in 95% of cases. Heredity and lack of children are the risk factors. Ovarian and endometrial cancers have been increasing in women who have never had children or who have a family history. Replacement hormone therapy may also favor its appearance in some cases and therefore requires special monitoring.
The solution
Breast self-examination, the annual visit to the gynecologist, with annual cytology, and a pelvic exam are the main weapons of prevention.
Glaucoma
This degenerative eye disease increases with age and can cause blindness if not treated in time. There are several types, but the most common is chronic glaucoma that is caused by a progressive (and asymptomatic) increase in eye strain that damages the optic nerve. Family history, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and myopia are some of the risk factors. Treatment can be done through drops (which have to be applied for life) or surgery.
The solution
An annual visit to the ophthalmologist can anticipate the problem before causing permanent damage. Remember that existing injuries can not be corrected, so it's better to be safe.
Take care with...
. The hormonal changes, associated with the climacteric, can cause depressive symptoms to which it is necessary to be attentive. The incidence of breast cancer is also higher, so you should have an annual mammogram.
. The diseases associated with cholesterol and hypertension, especially if you are a smoker and have a sedentary life, are other evils lurking. Strokes and myocardial infarction are some examples, so it pays to correct some bad habits. Still on time.
At age 60
Vision, hearing, and memory are lost. The secret to living longer is to keep the body in shape.
Cardiovascular problems
Cardiovascular diseases Stroke (stroke), myocardial infarction and strokes are the leading cause of death in Western countries and are linked to lifestyle and diet. The accumulation of fats in the wall of blood vessels, atherosclerosis, evolves silently and can cause fatal damage. High cholesterol, hypertension, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes and tobacco are the main risk factors.
The solution
Become adept at the Mediterranean diet and start eating fatty fish and using olive oil, which are healthy fats, and avoid red meats, butters and margarines. Eat vegetables and fruits at every meal. And never, never forget to exercise. Do not give in to the temptation to lead a sedentary life. Move yourself.
Osteoporosis
It is estimated that one third of women will suffer from osteoporosis after menopause. There is loss of bone density that often happens invisibly and is only detected when there is some fracture. The female sex is the most affected, mainly due to the hormonal deficiency postmenopause.
The solution
Get exercise, soak up the sun, and eat foods rich in calcium. It is advisable to perform a periodic bone densitometry, to detect the loss of density of your bones.
Waterfalls
Blurred and dull vision and light-chaining indicate the presence of senile cataract, caused by the degradation of the lens. Surgery is the most indicated treatment and does not require hospitalization.
The solution
At least once a year you should go to the ophthalmologist to detect any early signs of cataracts.
Memory Problems
Aging is associated with short-term memory loss (for example, setting a phone number) and prospective memory (remembering to take a pill). When the loss of mental functions is too great it can turn into dementia. One of the main forms is Alzheimer's, which affects more women and has no cure.
The solution
Eat well and take supplements to stimulate brain function, such as folic acid, iron, B-complex vitamins, especially B12, and essential fatty acids such as omega-3. Walk, read and continue to learn.
Take care with...
Influenza and colds, which can have complications at this age, and should be avoided by being vaccinated annually.
.Urinary infections and incontinence. They are common in more advanced ages due to a phenomenon called urogenital prolapse, which consists of the bladder or uterus decay due to a loss of pelvic tissue support capacity. The treatment is surgical.
