Are you above 40? Here is the health checklist for women over 40!
Are you above 40? Then your health must be your priority. As aging is normal it comes along with a couple of changes in the brain and body like slowing down of metabolism. Besides exercising regularly, eating healthy, and maintaining stress it is important to get timely body screenings. These tests “Health checklist for women above 40” will help you recognize the arousal of disease at early stages.
Here are a few alarming tests that every woman above 40 must undergo
1. Cholesterol level test
Women tend to increase their level of cholesterol during menopause and hence they must start cholesterol tests between 40 to 45 years of age. A full cholesterol test can determine the risk of becoming a victim of blood vessel illnesses like atherosclerosis or aneurysm and heart disease.
2. Examination of Eye
Most eye care doctors recommend receiving a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years, depending on your age, risk factors, and whether you currently wear contact lenses or glasses. A baseline eye exam is a comprehensive examination that searches for early signs of eye disease as well as other general health concerns. This is important since the eye can indicate a variety of health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and even cancer.
3. Risk of Breast cancerÂ
“The two most frequent diseases in women are breast and cervical cancer,” explains Dr. Gaither. Breast cancer can strike anyone at any age, but the risk grows as one gets older. “Any woman who is or has been sexually active can develop cervical cancer,” she continues, “but it is more common in women who have had HPV, are immune weakened, have poor nutrition, and don’t receive pap screenings.”
A clinical breast exam (CBE) is a physical examination performed during a routine medical examination. The physician performs this test, he will palpate the underarm, breasts, and area below the breast bone to evaluate abnormalities or changes. The clinical breast examination’s main purpose is to distinguish between normal physiological changes and a distinct breast mass. The physician will also talk to you about doing a breast self-examination at home so you can keep track of your breast tissue. This plays a vital role in the “Health checklist for women over 40”
4. Reduced sex drive
Women in their 40s may have reduced sex drive for a variety of reasons. The cause could be anything from hormonal shifts to vaginal dryness. In some circumstances, the remedy is as simple as using estrogen lotion, while in others, it may imply something more serious. No matter how minor or serious you believe the problem is, always consult your doctor.
5. Slowed down metabolism
Every decade after the age of 40, your metabolism slows by roughly 5%. This isn’t to say that everything is gone once you turn 40; it simply means that you must make better dietary choices and schedule more exercise time.
6. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Test
Women above 40 years old have risk factors for osteoporosis, such as a minor trauma fracture, you should be examined to see if more testing is necessary. A Bone Mineral Density test may be required as it determines the number of minerals in your bone, which can help you detect osteoporosis and fractures. The whole spectrum of medical tests and screening procedures required for women over 40 vary by risk factors, personal and family medical history, and lifestyle.
7. Hike in blood pressure
Women in their forties and fifties are more likely than males to have a rise in blood pressure. The good news is that most of the time it’s related to things that can be controlled, such as weight, food, and exercise. Keep track of your physician appointments because your blood pressure can rise without causing any symptoms. Jessica Shepherd, MD, a Chicago-based OB/GYN and founder of Her Viewpoint said to find methods to be creative with food intake as metabolism changes with age. “Changes in metabolism, hormone maintenance, and heart health occur as estrogen levels fall during menopause,” she explains.
8. Symptoms of Menopause
Every middle-aged woman’s life is defined by menopause. Although menopause itself isn’t usually a cause for concern, the symptoms that accompany it, such as hormone imbalances, metabolic changes, decreased energy, and hot flashes might be.
9. Pelvic examination
Dr. Shepherd, Dr. Taz, and Dr. Gaither all think that pap screenings are vital for women of all ages, especially as they approach middle age. Cervical cancer is detected through Pap smears, and like with any cancer, early detection is critical.
10. Colonoscopies to check polyps or cancer
Although colonoscopies are generally suggested for women over the age of 50, your 40s are an excellent time to begin discussing them with your doctor, specifically if you have a family history of polyps or colon cancer.
11. Dryness in the vagina
Vaginal dryness, which is caused by decreased estrogen levels during pre-menopause and menopause, is frequent not only in middle age but also after childbirth. Although many women may be ashamed to discuss the problem, it is quite common, and there is a simple solution. Most OB/GYNs will advise against using scented soaps. It can also be treated with prescription estrogen creams.
12. Fogging of the brain
Another negative effect of pre-menopause is difficulty concentrating and cognitive difficulties. Menopause has been shown to cause cognitive fog in women as young as their 40s, according to studies. Although there isn’t a magic medication to clear your mind, knowing you’re not alone is reassuring. Here are some more ways to improve your mind.
- Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep, from 10pm is recommended and not later than midnight
- Don’t consume coffee, alcohol or smoke in the afternoonÂ
- Cut down time before laptop and phones
- Think positive and reduce stress
- Exercise regularly and change your diet
- Do activities that you enjoy
13. Audibility test
Hearing examinations should begin when you are 40 years old or older because the aging process is a major role in hearing loss. Adults should get a hearing test every ten years until they reach the age of 50, and then every three years after that.
14. Gain of excess weight
It was easy to lose weight in your 20s by taking out soda for a week, but as women get older, it becomes more difficult to lose weight and easier to acquire it. “The major precluding variables to weight growth are age, inactivity, stress levels, and poor food choices,” says Kecia Gaither, MD, head of prenatal services at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx New York City-based OB/GYN. She said that it’s important to be active.
15. Sleeplessness during menopause
As if exhaustion and poor energy weren’t enough, many middle-aged women also suffer from sleeplessness. In fact, according to research conducted by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 20% of women aged 40 to 59 have issues falling asleep four or more times per week. According to the study, many women experience this as a result of the onset of menopause. High body temperatures, sweating at night and mood changes can all disrupt sleep.
16. Up to date vaccinationÂ
A thorough check of your vaccination is needed. Especially the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination. It’s significant to avert genital warts or arousal of types of cancer. Â This is especially important to prevent certain types of cancer or genital warts.
The flu shot is always necessary, but it’s even more so as we get older and our immune systems weaken.
17. Mood swings due to hormonal shifts
Women have experienced mood swings since puberty, but as they approach menopause, the hormonal shifts can become unpleasant. Early stress management, according to Dr. Taz, is crucial. She claims that “stress causes cortisol, which causes sickness.” “To stay healthy, everyone should understand and practice managing stress and the cortisol response.” Breathwork, meditation, acupuncture, massage, yoga, and enjoying nature are just a few of the finest ways to relax.
18. Glucose blood test
Aim: To measure the glucose amount in the blood. It’s a significant tool to diagnose, monitor, managing, and preventing diabetes.
Risk factors: Age about 45, inactive lifestyle, hiked cholesterol, and family history. Based on the risk factors you must undergo tests every 3 years or annually.
19. Screening of Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer occurs at any time in life but it most commonly occurs in women over 40.
This test replaced the Pap test in Australia around 2017 December. The Cervical Screening Test is to figure out the presence of the known stains for Human Papillomaviruses (HPV) known for triggering cervical cancer. replaced the Pap test in Australia. This now tests for known strains of Human Papillomaviruses (HPV) that appear two years after becoming sexually active or about 25 years of age
If tested normal, get it every 5 years.
20. Presence of diabetes
Obesity, according to Dr. Gaither, is one of the most important factors in acquiring diabetes as you get older. “Obesity is a risk factor for the development of diabetes,” she continues. If you’re overweight and approaching middle age, you’re more likely to get diabetes. If you’re worried, see your doctor.
21. Traces of osteoporosisÂ
Women lose bone density and strength as they get older, which can contribute to osteoporosis. This is when the bones become brittle and fragile. Because it affects more women than males, women in their forties should seek medical treatment if they develop any symptoms.
22. Cardiovascular health
Heart disease is the leading cause of mortality in women in the United States, and your risk increases as you get older. Dr. Gaither strongly advises women in their 40s to receive cardiac exams in addition to adopting a healthy lifestyle.
23. Skin examination
At the very least, you should have your skin examined by a doctor once a year. You should also perform a home skin check regularly and see your doctor if any changes occur.
24. Loss of hair
Hair loss is primarily inherited in both men and women, but hormones at the time of menopause can also play a role. However, if you’re concerned about hair loss, consult the doctor about supplements and therapies that can help.
25. A heavy flow of menses
Heavy periods are an indication of menopause, even though it may seem paradoxical. Around this period, your menstrual cycle may be thrown off, resulting in higher bleeding in some months than others.
26. Presence of lowered energy and fatigue
A lady in her forties may be used to being tired. Even though you’re presumably working full-time, raising children, and running a household, women tend to become more tired as they get older. This is mostly due to the hormonal changes that occur during menopause. “Consistent sleep is a crucial part of the body’s restoration and replenishment,” explains Dr. Bhatia. Dr. Bhatia recommends getting seven hours of sleep five nights a week.
27. Track the mental health
Women are more prone than men to have mental health problems as they get older. “The most prevalent issues are anxiety, depression, Alzheimer’s, and cognitive impairment,” explains Dr. Gaither. There are a variety of reasons why women are more likely to suffer mental health difficulties, but the varying hormone levels that women experience throughout menstruation, pregnancy, and other life events are most likely to blame.
Conclusion
Undergo physical exams annually as they can help in identifying arising problems before they become malignant. Based on family history, factors of risk, age, and review of lifestyle habits the physician might advise a variety of screenings and tests.
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