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8 Health Issues For Women Over 65

As women age, the chances of developing certain health issues begin to increase. Your biological makeup plays a role in how predisposed you are to certain illnesses. We have compiled a list of the most prevalent health concerns impacting women who are over 65 and what can be done to manage those risks. 

1. Heart Disease 

More women die of heart disease than any other condition. Heart disease is a general term used to describe different consequences of blocked arteries that include Coronary Artery Disease, Heart attacks, Arrhythmias, and heart failure. Symptoms of a heart problem include chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, weakness or lightheadedness, fluttering heartbeat, fainting, and pain in the neck and jaw area. Sometimes these symptoms get confused with heartburn or overexertion and are dismissed entirely. 

High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of heart disease and can also cause hypertension which can result in a heart attack or stroke. Keeping your cholesterol down and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is pivotal in preventing heart-related diseases. That includes exercising and maintaining a healthy weight, a healthy diet and reducing smoking and drinking. 

2. Stroke

There are three types of stroke: hemorrhagic, or bleeding in the brain, ischemic, or the blockage of a blood vessel that causes impaired blood flow, and transient ischemic. Strokes have a very specific set of symptoms that show on the surface. These symptoms can be remembered by the acronym BE FAST. This stands for Balance, Eyes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Slurred speech, Time to call 9-1-1. 

3. Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the biggest health concerns among seniors. It is a condition that affects the body’s ability to process sugar and convert it to energy. If your body can’t process sugar, it causes high blood glucose levels, which can lead to a variety of health concerns like obesity, cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. Although it is not exclusive to women, it does increase the risk for heart disease by four times in women. Women are also more susceptible to diabetes-related complications such as blindness and kidney disease. 

There are two types of diabetes: 

Type 1 

This is where your pancreas cannot produce insulin on its own, therefore the body attacks the insulin-producing islets rendering them useless. Type 1 is the lesser common of the two. 

Type 2

This is the more common form of diabetes as 90% of diabetics have type 2. This develops over time where your blood sugar levels rise too high that your body can’t produce the necessary amount of insulin to regulate itself. 

Warning signs for both forms of diabetes are increased urination, extreme hunger, blurred vision, and fatigue. To lower your risk of type 2 diabetes, try to maintain a healthy diet and weight, exercise frequently, and quit smoking. 

4. Depression

Depression is twice as likely to affect women as men. Elderly women can go through a lot of trauma in their later life that can lead to depression such as losing a partner or loved one, developing a chronic illness, decrease in social networks, or other stressful life events. There are three types of depression: Major depression, Persistent depressive disorder, and Minor depression. 

Depression can be treated by a therapist or psychiatrist, who can prescribe medication or help get to the root of the problem. 

5. Arthritis

Arthritis is a term used to describe a disease that inflames joints, primarily in your knees, elbows, fingers, and ankles. There are dozens of types of arthritis but the most common types in women are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Gout. One of the best ways to deal with arthritis is to stay active to prevent loss of range of motion. Treatment starts with pain management to allow you to stay active and once joint pain is tolerable, an increase in exercise such as lifting weights can help build up muscles around the joints. 

6. Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women and is also the leading cause of cancer deaths for women. Monthly self-examinations can help you identify any changes to your breasts. Early detection can save your life which is why it is recommended that the average risk women start getting annual breast cancer screenings when they turn 40.

You can manage risks by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as exercising and quitting smoking. For those who carry the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, your chances of getting breast cancer are higher and your physician can make recommendations about how to monitor you more closely.

7. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes your bones to weaken, making them susceptible to fractures or breaks. Some risk factors can include certain medications, early menopause, a low body mass index (BMI), cancer treatment, and genetics. You can offset these risks by increasing your calcium intake, staying active with appropriate weight-bearing exercises, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use. Some warning signs of osteoporosis are: 

  • Brittle bones
  • Loss in height
  • Slouchy posture
  • Family history

You may not notice you’re suffering from osteoporosis until the disease has fully onset. It’s recommended that you request a bone density test from your doctor every year starting around age 50 to keep track of your bone density levels.

8. Dementia

Dementia is a broad term that describes any form of memory loss from disease or trauma. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. This disease happens when plaques form in the brain, destroying healthy brain cells. Alzheimer’s is a progressive illness that gets worse over time. Some warning signs include loss of short-term memory, difficulty retaining information, and general confusion. While the exact cause of dementia is unknown, experts say a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Be Fast To Identify A Stroke And Save A Life

What Is A Stroke? 

Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. It occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When this happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so the brain cells die. 

There Are 3 Types Of Strokes: 

Ischemic Stroke

Most strokes are ischemic strokes. They make up about 87% of all strokes each year in America. Ischemic strokes happen when the blood flow through the artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain becomes blocked. This leads to brain damage or death of brain cells.

Transient Ischemic Stroke

A Transient Ischemic Stroke is usually called a “mini stroke.” In a transient ischemic stroke, blood flow to the brain is blocked for only a short time (usually about 5 minutes). This type of stroke serves as a warning sign of a future stroke. 

Hemorrhagic Stroke

A hemorrhagic stroke happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures. The leaked blood puts too much pressure on brain cells, which damages them. Health conditions like high blood pressure and aneurysms can cause a hemorrhagic stroke. 

The brain is one of the most complex organs in the body that controls various body functions. If a stroke occurs and blood flow can’t reach an area of the brain that controls a certain body function, that part of the body won’t work as it should. 

Stroke is the leading cause of disability in America and the 5th leading cause of death. The biggest hurdle of strokes is recognizing the symptoms and understanding that strokes are medical emergencies. The faster a person recognizes the symptoms of a stroke and gets medical attention- the greater the chance a life can be saved. 

B.E. F.A.S.T. 

Use the letters in “B.E. F.A.S.T.” to spot early warning signs of a stroke and know when to call 9-1-1.

Balance:

Is there a sudden loss of balance or coordination? Is the person leaning to the side or staggering when walking?

Eyes:

Is there sudden blurred of double vision or sudden, persistent vision trouble?

Face: 

Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile lopsided or uneven?

Arms:

Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward or feel heavy?

Speech:

Sudden difficulty in speaking or understanding. Does the person have slurred speech? Ask the person to say/repeat a simple phrase. 

Time: 

Call 9-1-1 for immediate medical attention if you notice one or more of these signs. Take note of when the symptoms began. 

Quick action is key to treatment for strokes. Be informed, vigilant, and if you think you or someone else might be having a stroke, BE FAST. 

Townsen Memorial Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, our emergency room provides 24/7 around the clock care with no wait times. Our innovative facilities and experienced staff mean you’ll be comfortable during your stay and that you can trust us with your medical care. We are located in Humble, TX off of FM 1960 and Highway 59. If you have any questions visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Black History Month: How Heart Disease And Stroke Impact African Americans

February is Black History Month. We take this time to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and honor the significant role and impact they have made on American society.

This year during Black History Month, we want to discuss the health disparities that African Americans face. Heart disease and stroke are two leading causes of death of African Americans. At Townsen Memorial, we can improve the odds of preventing and beating these diseases by helping African Americans understand the risks and taking simple steps to address them. High blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes are common conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. 

High Blood Pressure

High Blood Pressure, also known as hypertension, is when your blood pressure, the force of blood flowing through your blood vessels, is consistently too high. In African Americans, high blood pressure is found to be more severe and develops earlier in life. About 2 out of every 5 African American adults have high blood pressure and less than half of them have it under control. If you know your blood pressure is high, you need to check it regularly and notify a doctor at Townsen Memorial of any changes so that they can adjust your treatment. 

Obesity

African Americans are extremely affected by obesity. According to the CDC, African Americans are nearly 1.5 times as likely to have obesity as compared to other races. While it can be challenging, the main way to prevent obesity is to make lifestyle changes. At Townsen Memorial, we have a knowledgeable bariatrics team who can lead you through every step of the way to a healthier life.  

Diabetes

Diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke and African Americans are more likely to develop diabetes than other races. In the United States, Black adults are 60 percent more likely than white adults to develop type 2 diabetes. Family history, obesity, and insulin resistance are all factors that contribute to the risk of diabetes in the African American community. 

What You Can Do For Your Health: 

Living a healthy lifestyle is the main factor that can help prevent heart disease and stroke. Here are some tips to maintaining a healthier lifestyle: 

  1. Eat a Healthy Diet
  2. Exercise Regularly 
  3. Stay Smoke-Free
  4. Limit Alcohol Use
  5. Know your Family History 
  6. Manage your medical conditions. Stay up to date with annual checkups with a physician. 

Trust Townsen Memorial With Your Health

Townsen Memorial you can work with a medical professional to learn your specific risk factors and the things you need to do to take care of your health. Living a healthy lifestyle and receiving regular checkups with a physician helps to prevent heart disease and stroke. Talk with a doctor to understand your risks based on your lifestyle and family history. Our innovative facilities and experienced staff mean you’ll be comfortable during each visit and that you can trust us with your medical care. We are located in Humble, TX off of FM 1960 and Highway 59. We can help you get back on your feet and do the things you love in no time. If you have any questions visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Heart Disease: Risk Factors And Prevention

Each February, we celebrateAmerican Heart Month by motivating each other to adopt healthier lifestyles to prevent heart disease. Being physically active, eating healthier foods, getting enough sleep, not smoking, and finding healthy ways to reduce stress can help prevent heart disease. And, when we take care of our hearts, we set an example for those around us to do the same. 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States claiming the lives of over 600,000 Americans every year. Heart disease affects all ages, genders, and ethnicities. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and excessive alcohol use. About 47% of people in the United States have at least one of these risk factors. 

Heart disease is a general term used to refer to several types of heart conditions. There are four common types of heart disease.

Coronary Artery Disease

This is the most common type of heart disease that affects blood flow to the heart that can lead to a heart attack. A heart attack is an immediate trip to the Emergency Room. 

Arrhythmia 

Arrhythmia is a change in the heart’s sequence of electrical impulses that can result in heartbeats being too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregular (palpitations). In extreme cases, sudden cardiac arrest may occur. This is when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively and blood is not circulated by the heart. About 95% of individuals that have sudden cardiac arrest die from this condition. Time is of the essence and a call to 911 and a trip to the emergency room need to happen immediately. 

Heart Valve Disease

This occurs when a valve in the heart is damaged or diseased. 

Heart Failure

Heart failure is a condition where the heart does not work the way it should. It does not mean the heart has stopped beating but instead could mean it has fluid buildup. 

There is a long list of symptoms to watch out for when it comes to heart disease. Some of the most common include:

  • Pain, pressure, or discomfort in the center of the chest
  • Pain, tingling, or discomfort the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Sweating and cold, clammy skin
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness 
  • Fast or uneven heartbeat
  • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
  • Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, and abdomen
  • Fatigue

There are several imaging tests done in the hospital to determine heart disease including an Electrocardiogram, Echocardiogram, MRI or CT of the heart, stress test, and more. Some possible treatments include medication, surgery, or something as simple as a lifestyle change. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Preventative Screenings Worth Scheduling

When it comes to your health, taking a proactive approach by taking preventative measures can give you the best quality of life. Preventative screenings can detect issues early on which gives you the best chance at treatment. Far too many Americans are dying from preventable diseases that can almost always be treated if found early. With the medical advancements today, we all have the ability to achieve more successful outcomes than ever before. 

Lung CT

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the US. The survival rate for lung cancer is 12% and has not changed in 40 years. However, if detected at stage I, the survival rate is 70-80%. Lung CT screening provides more detailed information than conventional X-rays making it possible to diagnose and manage lung cancer earlier and more effectively. Detection of cancers when they are much smaller are far more easily treated or cured. This test takes less than 15 minutes and requires no preparation.

Who should have this exam?

  • History of smoking
  • Family history of lung cancer
  • Occupational exposure (Shipyard, military, asbestos, coal miners)
  • Unexplained cough or fever
  • As a substitute for annual chest x-ray after age 35
  • History of unexplained, recurrent pneumonias
  • History of multiple x-rays as a child, including multiple scoliosis surveys
  • Previous history of any cancer

Virtual Colonoscopy

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the US and almost always begins with an abnormal growth, or polyp. If polyps are detected and removed before they become malignant, this deadly cancer may be escaped. Although the effectiveness of traditional colonoscopy for preventing and detecting colorectal cancer is unquestioned, many avoid them because of its invasiveness. Virtual colonoscopy is done with a CT scan and is non-invasive, quick, requires no sedation, allows patients to return to work, and is less expensive. It is also more comfortable and much faster than the traditional colonoscopy. The risks and the recovery from virtual colonoscopy are also much lower. Studies have shown this procedure was found to be just as effective, if not more effective than the traditional colonoscopy.

This test takes approximately 30 minutes and requires a preparation 48 hours prior to the exam. CO2 is placed in the colon through a small tube during the procedure so that it will evaporate and not expel.

Who should have this exam?

  • Family history of colon cancer
  • Family or patient history of polyps
  • Those who prefer to not have a regular colonoscopy
  • Men or women over age 45 with prior normal colonoscopy
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Blood in stool
  • Unexplained weight loss or change in appetite
  • Wellness screening every 5 years after age 40
  • Previous history of any cancer
  • History of multiple x-rays as a child, including multiple sclerosis

Breast Mammogram And Breast MRI

The survival rate of breast cancer directly correlates with the size of the cancer. The smaller the tumor, the greater the chance of survival. Finding cancer earlier can ultimately mean the difference between life and death. If you are an average risk patient, it is important to start getting annual mammograms at age 40. If you have a family history, it is recommended to start annual screenings 10 years before your first-degree relative had breast cancer.

Breast MRI is a highly sensitive tool for creating dynamic, three-dimensional images of breast tissue. It is a valuable tool in the assessment of dense breasts when used as an adjunct to traditional breast imaging modalities. A physician’s prescription is necessary for this test.

Who should have this exam?

  • Inconclusive mammogram
  • Breast or chest pain with inconclusive mammogram or ultrasound
  • Evaluation of breast implants for possible rupture or to exclude cancer
  • High risk breast patients under the age of 45
  • Any patient with small dense breasts

Full Body MRI

This exam is used to evaluate the soft tissues of the body. Since tumors and inflammation produce an increased amount of water and swelling, an MRI searches for areas of abnormal water accumulation and swelling throughout the entire body. Specialized brain sequences can be used to detect early dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease. Special sequences can also be added to evaluate high-risk areas including the bile duct, liver, pancreas, uterus, ovaries, prostate gland, and testicles. MRIs involve no radiation and are good for detecting soft tissue cancers at an early stage. A physician’s prescription is necessary for this test.

This exam takes approximately 1 hour, depending on the required views. It requires administration of one Bentyl tablet the night before the exam and one on the day of the exam. The patient must also fast 6 hours prior to the exam.

Who should have this exam?

  • History of neurological problems, such as atypical headache or family history of aneurysm
  • Family history of stroke
  • Any risk factor favoring early detection of cancer of the brain, bladder, liver, pancreas, prostate, gallbladder, bile ducts, liver, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, or neck
  • Joint or extremity problems or unexplained pain
  • Wellness evaluation, especially in patients under 50
  • Unexplained weight loss, malaise, fatigue
  • Previous history of cancer

Cardiac Score

This exam is a CT scan of the chest that measures calcium in the coronary arteries. The score that is generated helps to determine the patient’s cardiovascular risk when combined with the traditional cardiac risk factors. Coronary calcium scoring is highly predictive of obstructive coronary artery disease. This test takes less than 15 minutes and requires no preparation.

Who should have this exam? Those 40 years old or over with increased risk for heart disease from:

  • Family history of heart disease, particularly with family members with the onset of heart disease before the age of 50
  • Smoking
  • Elevated total or LDL cholesterol, decreased HDL cholesterol
  • Elevated C-reactive protein
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High stress job
  • Unexplained chest discomfort
  • Previous history of heart disease
  • Premature menopause
  • Abnormal lipoprotein A
  • Sedentary lifestyle

Schedule Your Preventative Screenings Today. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.

Resources

1. MIF, You’re Covered! The 4 Preventative Scans Worth Scheduling, accessed 12/20/2021 https://mifimaging.com/2018/10/24/youre-covered-the-4-preventative-scans-worth-scheduling/

2. ProScan, Preventative Screenings, accessed 12/20/2021 https://proscan.com/services-our-specialties/preventative-screenings/