According to CDC, about 87.6% of older women in the US live with at least one chronic condition. Sometimes, these conditions are hereditary,secondary to accidents or illness. Unfortunately, they can also be caused by poor lifestyle choices.
The risk of several health concerns also increases as we age; for instance, breast cancer, heart disease, diabetes, bladder leakage, urinary incontinence, nutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis, and dementia are all health issues prevalent in older women.
Here’s everything you need to look out for.
Breast Cancer
Based on statistics, experts believe that there is a chance that 1 in 8 women in America will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. But research shows that the risk of breast cancer significantly increases as women get older, especially after 50 years of age. While early detection does save lives, it is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in American women.
It is essential to get screened annually for breast cancer. Screening detects problems early so that proper treatment plans can reduce the risk of mortality or significant complications. Be sure to perform self-exams at least once a month and if anything seems unusual, seek medical right away.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the most common cause of death for women in the US and more prevalent with aging. According to the American Heart Association, around 70% of women between the ages of 60 and 79 are diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.
It can be difficult to identify the signs of heart-related problems as they are different between men and women. Diagnoses related to heart issues include coronary artery disease, strokes, heart attacks, and arrhythmias.
It is important to be aware of the symptoms of heart disease as you get older or have a family history.
Diabetes
Diabetes is common in both men and women and it is one of the most significant health concerns for people over 60. However, in the US, its overall risk has increased dramatically within all age groups.
Diabetes is one of the chronic diseases which can affect every system throughout the body and it can increase your risk of other chronic health issues as well.
Osteoporosis
About 80 percent of osteoporosis cases in the US are women making this diagnosis of great concern to women. It is also more common in women over 50.
Our body replaces old bones with new ones throughout our lives. However, as we age, our bodies may not be able to keep up with bone production. This can lead to weaker bones that break more easily. Women tend to have smaller bones than men, such that the loss of bone mass leads to increased osteoporosis diagnosis.
It is important to get screened for osteoporosis by a health professional.
Menopause
Most women experience perimenopause and menopause symptoms after 40 secondary to the natural decline in hormones, especially estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
One of the most common symptoms and complaints associated with menopause are hot flashes. However, Menopause also increase the risk of UTI’s and bladder leaks. Please discuss with your health provider if your symptoms become bothersome.
Adult-Onset Asthma
Asthma is generally developed and diagnosed during childhood and is one of the more common chronic conditions in children. However, adult-onset asthma is also possible, and it’s more common in older women than men.
Asthma in adulthood can be caused by hormonal fluctuations, especially the ones caused during menopause or peri-menopause. If you are noticing a persistent cough or difficulty breathing, be sure to get checked, it is possible that you are experiencing adult- onset asthma. Asthma is treatable and can be managed with medication and other interventions.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is a widespread health concern among women, but it’s not exactly an age-related issue. Urinary incontinence can happen at any point in life, and it affects about 1 in 4 women—of different age groups.
However, the cases of urinary incontinence do increase with age. In fact, up to 75% of women over 65 years express concern about bladder leaks. This is usually due to pelvic floor muscles that are not working as they should, muscles can be weak or even too tight making it difficult for the bladder to function properly. Luckily, urinary incontinence is a condition that can be treated and made more manageable.
Many times, women with urinary incontinence suffer in silence because it’s not the easiest condition to talk about. However, Dr. Shelia C. Whiteman DPT at The Pelvic Coach is the perfect person to talk to for health concerns related to menopause, urinary incontinence, and pelvic health in general.
She can guide you about your options, including physical therapy for pelvic health and exercises to improve bladder control.
Get in touch with us to learn more.
