It’s natural to experience more aches and pains as we age, but a warning has been issued that they could also indicate more serious conditions. There is an increased chance of developing heart disease and other conditions as we get older and therefore it’s important to recognise the signs.
In the UK there are around 7.6million people with heart disease. It’s a figure that’s expected to rise with a growing population. Indeed, more than half of people are expected to have heart of circulatory conditions during our lives.
The NHS says that simple lifestyle changes can reduce the chances of heart disease. These include a healthier diet, exercising more, not smoking and controlling cholesterol levels, reports the Mirror.
To differentiate between what would be considered normal pains to expect with no longer being young, and something more serious, it is important to note if there has been a sudden change. Dr Sonia Sehgal, of UCI Health (University of California) has made a list of symptoms where you should get them checked out if you have them.
Chest pain
Any pain or feeling of pressure should be looked into urgently as it is a possible sign of a heart problem. Men often say that their first symptoms of heart disease were pains, sometimes severe, on their left side. It can be so strong that some have claimed it to be like “an elephant sitting on their chest” Women tend to have more subtle symptoms that can include pain or pressure anywhere in the chest, pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach, and feeling more tired when carrying out physical exercise.
Breathing difficulties
Shortness of breath is something that needs to be looked into and not ignored. It could be that you are suddenly huffing and puffing when doing regular walks that have previously never been a problem. Struggling to catch your breath can be caused by many things including asthma, emphysema and heart disease.
Tiredness
It is normal to feel tired from time to time which can be down to carrying out more exercise or for example having had a restless night. But if you have a profound fatigue then this could be more serious and indicate heart disease or a thyroid problem.
Headaches
It is important to have headaches checked out if they suddenly start and if you are somebody who normally doesn’t suffer from them. Pains in the head can be caused by many things including high blood pressure or a brain tumour. If they are migraines then they may be due to menopausal changes for women while headaches due to stress may need lifestyle modifications.
Nerve pain
Numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet could be due to nerve damage that may have been brought on by diabetes, neuropathy or a trapped nerve. Another possibility is thyroid dysfunction. “New symptoms of nerve pain or neuropathy definitely warrants a work-up,” Dr Sehgal said. “Patients should have lab tests done and these can help determine what further work-up is needed.”
Joint stiffness
A common condition that comes with ageing is osteoarthritis which typically affects the hands, knees and hips. There is usually a slow onset of osteoarthritis with dull pains and aches rather than anything severe.
Finally, Dr Sehgal said it is important to keep aware of what is happening with your body and not rely too much on internet information which may be incorrect and cause anxiety.
“In situations where you develop a new ache or pain, and it’s not severe or associated with fevers, chills, nausea or vomiting, you should observe it,” she said. “See if you can identify any patterns. For example, when it occurs or whether it dissipates on its own. Keep an eye on it.”
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