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Are you listening?


by Tina Y. Gerber - McCurley


Our bodies have a way of communicating with us when something is wrong. There are several warnings experts have identified which you should know as you age. These signs are essential to recognize, as they can help prevent more significant health problems later on. Recognizing the signs and seeking medical help is important for maintaining good health and improved well-being. Mental health is also a vital aspect of overall well-being.

Sometimes, things happen which seem minor, and we may want to dismiss them. Many of these signals and signs should be evaluated by your healthcare provider, so your doctor may effectively treat these issues.

One thing I notice about my hubby is, he loves to chew ice cubes! Weird right? Well, apparently, the need to chew ice could be a sign of an iron deficiency? Who knew? I myself crave salt occasionally, and I understand this could possibly be a sign of iron deficiency, anemia or dehydration? I have been diagnosed with iron deficiency in my younger years. We both have experienced restless leg syndrome, it feels as if bugs are creeping over our legs while we sleep. When I get this feeling, I know I need to increase my calcium intake for a few days during the month.

Did you know, experts report, a loss of smell can be an early sign of Parkinson, along with changes in movement, speech, and hand writing?

Everyone should know the signs of a heart attack, For example, mostly in men: a sense of heaviness in the chest, especially if accompanied by sudden, severe pain along the left arm occur. However, women's heart symptoms may be different. While their chest pain may be intermittent, women tend to have back pain, pain in the arms, and/or shortness of breath.

Along with heart attack, if a person has difficulty moving their legs or arms, especially on one side, they could be having a stroke? Other signs, such as: facial drooping; eye trouble, including blurred vision; difficulty talking; confusion; dizziness and loss of balance are also indicators.

If you notice colour changes to your skin, it could be a sign of jaundice, which can indicate possible liver or gallbladder problems. A few years ago, the whites of my eyes turned yellow and my gallbladder was removed a few days later! Other skin changes to recognize are rapid growths, bleeding or unusual skin lesions, moles or lumps.

Feelings of sadness/depression with extreme highs, on a prolonged basis, could be signs of mental illness and should never be ignored. If an individual is no longer interacting with others, has a lack of energy, a change in sleeping habits, thoughts of hurting themselves, anxiety, or hallucinations, it is important they or someone consult with a doctor.

When serious health symptoms occur, remember the quickest and safest way to receive medical attention is calling 911.

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