Diabetes

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.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. The disease, which affects more than 37 million people in the United States, is as common as one in ten people and is the seventh leading cause of death in the country. Even more staggering than that, according to the CDC, one in five people with diabetes aren’t even aware that they have it. This month, we’ve gathered what you need to know, including pre-diabetes, symptoms, management and more.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that directly affects how your body converts food into energy. Most people naturally produce the hormone, insulin, which assists in turning sugar from the food you eat into energy you can use or store for later. In patients with the disease, their body either doesn’t produce its own insulin, or it struggles to use the insulin it does produce. Either way, their blood sugar rises. This elevated blood sugar level can lead to serious health problems over time.

Type 1, Type 2 And Pre-Diabetes

If you know someone with diabetes, you’ve likely heard the terms type one and type two, which describe whether the patient’s body doesn’t produce insulin (type one) or doesn’t use insulin properly (type two). Fortunately for those with type two, the onset of the disease can be delayed or prevented entirely with lifestyle modifications.

If your blood sugar levels are elevated but not elevated enough for a diagnosis, your doctor may diagnose you with pre-diabetes. With this condition, your body may not be able to fully use the insulin you make, or your body may not make enough insulin to keep your blood sugar levels in a healthy range. More than 96 million Americans (one in three people) have pre-diabetes.

Symptoms

If you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, reach out to your doctor to have your blood sugar levels tested:

• Frequent Urination, often at night
• Extreme Thirst
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Severe Hunger cues
• Blurry Vision
• Numb or Tingling Hands or Feet
• Chronic Fatigue
• Very Dry Skin
• Slow to Heal Sores
• Increased Number of Infections

Management

Diabetes is a lifelong disease that can take a toll on a patient’s physical, mental and emotional health. Fortunately, there are things you can do if you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes to improve your quality of life.

• Eat Well: Maintaining a healthy blood sugar is the key to living with this disease. This means eating well, or more aptly put, it means eating healthy foods in the right amounts at the right times so your blood sugar stays in your target range as much as possible. The right diet looks different for every person. At Townsen Memorial Clinics, our doctors can work with you to find the right nutrition plan for your needs.
• Stay Active: Physical activity is important for people with diabetes, as it makes your body more sensitive to insulin. On top of lowering your blood sugar levels, regular physical activity also lowers your risk of heart disease and nerve damage.
• Take Care of Your Mental Health: People with diabetes are more likely to develop depression or anxiety, so be sure you’re regularly taking stock of your mental health and seeking treatment if you need it. Additionally, you may sometimes feel discouraged, frustrated, or tired of dealing with daily diabetes care, like diabetes is controlling you instead of the other way around. This is known as diabetes distress. While it can look like depression or anxiety, it can’t be treated effectively with medicine. Speak to your doctor if you’re experiencing symptoms like skipping insulin or doctors appointments.

The Care You Deserve At Townsen Memorial

At Townsen Memorial, our family of hospitals, clinics and imaging centers are equipped with the latest in medical technology and diabetes management strategies. We strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. Our standard of high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and through our 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.

Diabetes is a prevalent and complex health condition affecting millions worldwide. At Townsen Memorial Hospital Group, we aim to provide you with essential knowledge and insights into the management and understanding of diabetes. Whether you have recently been diagnosed or are seeking to expand your understanding, this blog will cover the basics of diabetes, including its types, symptoms, risk factors, and the significance of early detection and treatment. Join us as we dive into diabetes and empower you with valuable information for better management and overall well-being.

Understanding Diabetes 

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood glucose (sugar) levels. Diabetes occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone the pancreas produces that regulates blood sugar levels, allowing glucose to enter cells and be used for energy. There are two primary types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This results in little insulin production, necessitating lifelong insulin replacement therapy. Type 1 diabetes often develops in childhood or adolescence, although it can occur at any age.

On the other hand, type 2 diabetes is the most common form. Type 2 diabetes is typically associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, sedentary habits, and poor dietary choices. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to inadequate glucose uptake by cells. While type 2 diabetes can be managed through lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, some individuals may also require oral medication or insulin injections.

Recognizing the Symptoms and Reducing Risk Factors 

Early detection of diabetes is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications. The common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow wound healing. However, some people with type 2 diabetes may experience mild or no symptoms, making regular check-ups and screenings essential for early diagnosis.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing diabetes. These diabetes risk factors include a family history of diabetes, being overweight or obese, leading a sedentary lifestyle, having high blood pressure or cholesterol levels, and belonging to specific ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, or Asian Americans. Additionally, women with a history of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

By addressing modifiable risk factors, such as adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking, individuals can significantly reduce their chances of developing diabetes.

The Role of Townsen Memorial Hospital Group in Diabetes Care

At Townsen Memorial Hospital Group, we understand the far-reaching impact of diabetes on individuals, families, and communities. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing comprehensive diabetes care, including prevention, diagnosis, education, and treatment options. We offer state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies to ensure accurate diagnosis and personalized management plans tailored to each patient’s diabetes needs.

Our team comprises endocrinologists, dietitians, nurses, and diabetes educators who work collaboratively to empower patients with the knowledge and skills to manage their diabetes effectively. We offer educational programs, support groups, and resources to help individuals make informed choices about their lifestyle, diet, and medication. By partnering with Townsen Memorial Hospital Group, you can rest assured that you’ll receive compassionate care and access to the latest advancements in diabetes management.

If you are interested in diabetes care at Townsen Memorial Hospital Group, make an appointment by calling this number, 1-877-494-95487, or visit our website.

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. It is important to remain educated, find resources, and make sure all those around us are aware of their risk too. Diabetes is a complex health condition that affects millions of people in America. Without proper management it can lead to serious complications. 

What Is Diabetes?

Nearly half of all-American adults have diabetes or prediabetes, yet don’t understand the serious life-long burden of this illness or the 24/7 work it takes to effectively manage. According to the CDC, 34.2 million Americans have diabetes. Another 88 million American adults have prediabetes. 

Diabetes Is A Long-Lasting Health Condition That Affects How Your Body Turns Food Into Energy

Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to regulate the amount of glucose in the blood. Carbs are broken down to produce glucose, causing the blood glucose level to rise. The liver also stores glucose, which is used to avoid low blood glucose level when we’re not eating. 

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, which regulates the blood sugar level between certain limits. It can remove glucose from the blood and transport it into the cells of the body where it is needed for energy. Insulin also regulates the production of glucose by the liver and switches off production when the blood sugar level is high. 

Normally, the body produces enough insulin to keep the blood glucose level at ideal levels by removing excess glucose from the blood and regulating how much the liver processes. People with diabetes are not able to remove the excess glucose from the blood-allowing the blood glucose level to rise.

With diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use it like it should. 

There Are 2 Types Of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes is a disorder that affects young children predominately and continues the rest of their lives. In Type 1 diabetes the body does not produce insulin. The body breaks down the carbs you eat into blood sugar that it uses for energy. Insulin is the hormone that the body needs to get glucose from the bloodstream into the cells of the body. 

The key to managing Type 1 diabetes lies in working with your healthcare providers to discover what works best for you. Reach out to a doctor at Townsen Memorial to have a conversation about your concerns. We will work to find the resources that work best for you and help you find a balance in your life. We want you to feel comfortable in your lifestyle. 

Type 2 Diabetes

This is the most common type of diabetes. The body does not make or use insulin well. Without enough production of insulin, the glucose stays in the blood. 

Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can cause serious long-term problems such as: 

• High blood pressure
• Cardiovascular disease 
• Vision problems
• Stroke 
• Nerve damage
• Kidney damage
• Depression

Type 2 can be prevented or delayed by practicing a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating healthy food, being active, or losing weight if you are considered overweight. 

Avoid sugar and high-carbohydrate, processed foods. This includes sugary drinks, white bread, and candy. Practicing aerobic exercise with strength training can also help you maintain a healthy weight. A physician at Townsen Memorial can help you understand the steps you should be taking to live a healthy lifestyle if you are Prediabetic or struggle with Type 2 Diabetes.

Townsen Memorial Is Here For You

Our innovative facilities and experienced staff mean you’ll be comfortable during treatment 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. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.