5 Illnesses To Watch Out For As You Age

The older you get, the more common certain illnesses become, so it’s crucial to know what to look out for. To ensure you receive treatment as soon as symptoms show, here are five common illnesses in seniors and their warning signs.

1: Type 2 Diabetes

While type 1 diabetes is usually inherited, type 2 is more likely to develop once you’re over the age of 45. Those who are overweight, obese, don’t exercise often, and have a family history of diabetes are more at risk.

The Warning Signs:

Some of the most common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst and hunger, tiredness, weight loss, and frequent urination. So, if you are over the age of 40, in the risk group, and are showing any of these signs, you must see your doctor.

2: Alzheimer’s Disease

Memory loss is something no family wants to go through, but it is, unfortunately, more common the older you get. Alzheimer’s disease comes on gradually, slowly getting worse the longer you have it, so treatment and assistance are a must.

The Warning Signs:

Memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with learning new things are all indicators that someone might be experiencing Alzheimer’s disease. If someone you love displays these symptoms, you must seek treatment as soon as possible. Brightview, who have senior living in Bel Air, suggests that those with memory loss do well in assisted living communities, where they can enjoy a community feel as well as constant access to assistance when needed.

3: Arthritis

Arthritis is a painful illness that affects the joints. There are a couple of different types, with the most common being rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

The Warning Signs:

You will usually know if you have arthritis due to the swelling, pain, and stiffness in that area of the body. There are a few treatment options, such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, but there are also some things you can do from home, like avoid all these trigger foods. 

4: Cancer

There are many different kinds of cancer – too many to list here – and you are at an increased risk for most of them as you get older. The most common are bowel cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer.

The Warning Signs:

The warning signs differ depending on each cancer but include a lump in the breast, unexplained weight loss, coughing blood, and blood in the urine. Research the common cancers and their symptoms and stay on the lookout for them as you age.

5: Heart Disease

Heart disease is the biggest killer in the States, so it’s crucial to know the early warning signs and how to reduce your risk.

The Warning Signs:

Some of the early warning signs of heart disease include discomfort in the chest, stomach pain, light-headedness, and excessive sweating. Being such a deadly disease, you want to focus on preventing it before it occurs. To do this, you must eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, avoid bad habits (such as smoking and alcohol), and keep your blood pressure in the healthy range.