To most people, big 4-0 comes super quickly! One day you’re 39 and working and taking care of your family and the next day you’re 40 and feel out of breath when getting up from the bed. Okay, things might not change overnight, but once you enter the fifth decade of your life there are various health issues you can experience. Luckily, some are more than preventable if you know what to keep an eye on.
In both men and women, heart issues are the most dangerous health concern in later life. Blood pressure, triglycerides, cholesterol, heart rate—all of these tend to increase with age and boost your possibility of suffering a heart attack or stroke. It’s very important to check these parameters regularly and follow your doctor’s advice on keeping them within normal levels. Of course, a better diet and exercise are a given when it comes to heart health.
As we age, our metabolism slows down which will make the needle on the scale slowly rise with every year, sometimes even if you eat clean and exercise. If you struggle with weight, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional who will help with your diet and workout program. Additionally, they will measure your weight distribution (compare the size of your waist to your hips) which can be indicative of certain weight-related health issues in the future.
Vision changes often become a problem in people in the 40s (around 50% of all Australians have at least one eye condition). While some need to start wearing glasses for the first time in their life, others experience more serious vision loss. There’s nothing much you can do to prevent vision loss, but there are procedures you can undergo which will improve your vision. There are experts in eye surgery in Sydney who can reduce or completely eliminate the need for eyeglasses and contacts. This results in improved quality of life and improved safety.
In their mid-40, some women start to experience perimenopausal symptoms that lead to menopause. While this is not a disease or an illness, it has symptoms that can be very noticeable. While symptoms differ, most women experience irregular periods, hot flashes, heavy bleeding and others. Some also experience a decrease in libido as testosterone levels lower due to hormonal changes in perimenopause. You can consult with your doctor about hormone therapy which can help with some symptoms.
While taking care of your health is important in every age, as you get older, it becomes increasingly crucial if you wish to lead a happy senior life. So make sure to be proactive when it comes to your health in your 40s and you can prevent many unpleasant and downright life-threatening health issues.
Heart issues
In both men and women, heart issues are the most dangerous health concern in later life. Blood pressure, triglycerides, cholesterol, heart rate—all of these tend to increase with age and boost your possibility of suffering a heart attack or stroke. It’s very important to check these parameters regularly and follow your doctor’s advice on keeping them within normal levels. Of course, a better diet and exercise are a given when it comes to heart health.
Weight gain
Diabetes
The risk of Type 2 diabetes increases with age. Diabetes is directly connected to obesity and being overweight in your 40s will increase your risk of suffering from increased blood glucose levels. Keeping your weight at bay and eating well is one of the best things you can do to prevent diabetes.Changes in vision
Osteoporosis
Our bone mass, bone density and strength, usually decline after we turn 40. This issue increases the risk of osteoporosis or bone loss that can cause bone fractures and other bone-related issues. Women are at bigger risk of this issue, especially those in perimenopause. However, regular weight exercises and improved diet can help with your condition and reduce your chance of suffering from this issue.Depression and anxiety
Both men and women can notice many mental health changes after they turn 40. While mood changes are normal, extreme anxiety, apathy, withdrawal from interactions and activities and loss of energy are very important matters that require professional attention. If you notice you exhibit any of these depression and anxiety symptoms, make sure to seek help. This will allow you to enjoy your 40s more and become a happy, active and content senior.Testosterone deficiency
Men after 40 can experience testosterone deficiency, as well as enlarged prostate and erectile dysfunction. While it’s almost never talked about, occasional impotence affects 50% of all men in their 40s! Since erectile dysfunction is a condition that results from various underlying health issues that usually come to light between 40 and 49 (obesity, poor circulation, diabetes), talking to your doctor can help you tackle your other conditions that will help with ED.
Perimenopausal syndrome
In their mid-40, some women start to experience perimenopausal symptoms that lead to menopause. While this is not a disease or an illness, it has symptoms that can be very noticeable. While symptoms differ, most women experience irregular periods, hot flashes, heavy bleeding and others. Some also experience a decrease in libido as testosterone levels lower due to hormonal changes in perimenopause. You can consult with your doctor about hormone therapy which can help with some symptoms.While taking care of your health is important in every age, as you get older, it becomes increasingly crucial if you wish to lead a happy senior life. So make sure to be proactive when it comes to your health in your 40s and you can prevent many unpleasant and downright life-threatening health issues.
