Chronic conditions are a leading cause of death and disability in older adults. You are likely to develop one or more chronic conditions when you age. Chronic conditions San Antonio can make you feel sick and impact your daily life.
There are different causes of chronic diseases, including:
- Age: As you age, your body becomes more vulnerable to chronic diseases due to changes in your immune system.
- Genetics: Your family’s medical history can increase your risk of developing certain chronic conditions.
- Lifestyle factors: Eating a poor diet and not exercising regularly can increase your risk of some chronic diseases.
- Unhealthy lifestyle: Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs can also increase your risk of chronic conditions
- Environmental factors: Exposure to toxic chemicals or pollutants can also increase your risk of some chronic diseases.
Here are some of the most common chronic conditions that affect older adults:
Heart disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in people over 65. It occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries and restricts blood flow to your heart, making it difficult for your heart to pump oxygen and nutrients to your body. Some of the symptoms of heart disease include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when the body cannot maintain healthy glucose levels in the blood due to an inability to produce enough insulin or an impaired ability to use it properly. The condition is characterized by frequent urination, excessive thirst and hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow healing of wounds.
Osteoarthritis
It is a degenerative joint disease caused by the cartilage breakdown that cushions a joint’s bones. It is characterized by pain and stiffness in the joints and can make it difficult to move. Your doctor may prescribe physical therapy, pain relief medications, or other treatments to help manage your symptoms.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure is a condition in which the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is too high. It can cause damage to arteries and organs, leading to stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and other health complications. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term for diseases that cause brain cells to break down and die over time. It can lead to memory loss, changes in personality, difficulty communicating and understanding conversations, difficulty with problem-solving, and difficulty with activities of daily living. Treatment involves medication, lifestyle changes, and support from family and caregivers.
COPD
A group of lung conditions known as a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, makes breathing challenging. Smoking or prolonged exposure to air pollution and other environmental irritants are the usual causes. The signs include fatigue, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Treatment options include prescription drugs, oxygen therapy, and dietary modifications.
Stroke
When blood flow to the brain is restricted, the brain is deprived of oxygen, which damages the cells and results in a stroke. A sudden loss of strength or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, trouble speaking, confusion, and vision issues are among the symptoms. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, stroke treatment may entail medication and lifestyle changes. Talk to your doctor at South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center if you have any chronic conditions.
