SAFETY PRECAUTION TIPS FOR PERSONS 60 AND OLDER
To stay healthy and live longer, it is important to follow a
good nutrition diet, weight control, exercise, stress
management and have regular medical checkups at frequent
intervals. To enjoy a healthy life, it is also very important to
protect yourself against diseases by taking preventive
measures.
Disease Prevention
1) Cholesterol screening should be done on a yearly
basis.
2) linmunizations:
Influenza - every year
Tetanus booster - every 10 years
Diphtheria booster - every 10 years
Pneumococcus - every 6 years
3) A regular dental checkup for periodontal disease
should be done every year.
4) Vision should be checked every 1-2 years depending
upon the symptom.
5) Hearing should be tested as needed.
6) High blood pressure - the warning symptoms of
high blood pressure such as headaches, dizziness,
weakness, excess weight gain should never be
ignored.
7) Periodic breast examination and mammogram
should be performed every year
8) Pap smear should be done every year.
9) The warning symptoms of colon rectal cancer such
as sudden change in bowel habits, bloody stools,
and abdominal cramps should never be ignored. A
rectal exam, stool and occult blood tests should be
done every year. A sigmoidoscopy should be
performed every three to five years.
10) The warnings signs of diabetes such as increased
thirst, frequency of urination, craving for sweets,
and strong family history of diabetes should never
be ignored. Frequent blood sugars and glucose
tolerance tests should be performed on symptomatic
patients.
11) An oral exam should be done every year.
12) The warning symptoms of prostate cancer such as
frequently of urination, difficulty voiding, and blood
in the urine should never be ignored; Regular
prostate checkups should be a part of a complete
physical exam each year.
13) Skin cancer - the inspection, recommendations for
biopsy and further treatment depend upon physician's
evaluation and judgement.
Heartburn and Reflux
Heartburn also known as acid indigestion is a symptom
affecting all ages, but most common in adults over 60 and is
caused by backflow of acid from the stomach in esophagus
leading to irritation of esophagus lining.
The risk of heartburn increases with:
· a hiatal hernia (part of the stomach protrudes into the
· chest)
· ulcers of esophagus
· stress
· improper diet and overeating
· obesity
· smoking
· excessive intake of alcohol
· use of drugs such as aspirin, Motrin, cortisone, etc.
Possible Complications
Frequent heartburn over prolonged periods might lead to
peptic ulcer disease. associated with the following symptoms
are suggestive of heart attack and is emergency:
· shortness of breath with indigestion and heartburn
· sweating, nausea or vomiting
· pain in the jaw, neck and arm
· cold, clammy feeling
Treatment and Preventive Measures
1) Avoid smoking and over indulging in food or alcohol.
2) Do not wear tight or constrictive garments such as
girdles.
3) Reduce the amount of fats, deep fried foods, spices,
coffee, tea, tomato based foods, chocolate, citrus
fruits and juices.
4) Eat smaller meals, lose weight if you are overweight,
don't bend over, lie down or exercise immediately
after eating.
5) Elevate the head of bed 4-6 inches with blocks.
6) Do not recline for one hour after heavy meals, and eat dinners at least 2-3 hours before
going to bed.
7) Limit your intake of coffee, tea, alcohol and colas. Seek medical help if:
· swallowing becomes more difficult
· persistent heartburn and vomiting blood
· symptoms of heartburn with chest pain and shortness of breath
January, 1995
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