Encourage good health this Mother’s Day
Moms have “super” powers. Mom-power goes beyond ordinary to extraordinary to nurture at every turn. How about those supreme abilities for keeping all the plates spinning of life’s daily demands while patiently engaging in the moment with us? Or, the divine relief that overflows in everything from kissing our boo-boos to the 6th sense of “just knowing” what we need to giving “the” wisdom and insight for processing the dynamics of life? Oh, how about “those” powers to speak with their eyes … and supersonic hearing!! They are superhuman – our superheroes.
That’s a lot of responsibility. Thus, it is no surprise that many mothers will put taking care of their own health on the back burner.
This Mother’s Day, please join me in taking a pledge to lovingly remind the amazing women in our lives that their health needs to be at the top of their long list of things-to-do to keep that “super” in supreme well-being!
Dr. Nina’s What You Need To Know: About Health Screenings Every Woman Should Undergo (Part 2)
Blood pressure
Why? Increased blood pressure can elevate your risk for heart disease, stroke and kidney damage. Early detection allows for lifestyle changes and medications that can decrease disease burden. Symptoms of increased blood pressure are usually not obvious, until the damage has been done.
What? Involves placing a cuff around your biceps and inflating it followed by slowly deflating the cuff. A single high reading does not necessarily mean you have hypertension. Your health care provider will likely want to repeat the measurement at the end of a visit, or have you check it at home or at a pharmacy.
When? Age 20 years
How often? Every 2 years if it is below 120/80 mm Hg. When higher, your health care provider will likely want to check it more often.
Bone density screening
Why? To diagnose osteoporosis or bone weakness and try to slow down the progression, before breaking a bone.
What? A bone density test uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. The bones that are most commonly tested are in the spine, hip and forearm. Although you must lie still, there is no pain or discomfort involved.
When? 65 years of age or older. Screening may be recommended earlier if there are risk factors for osteoporosis such as a fracture from normal activity, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, early menopause, history of breast cancer, significant loss of height, smoking, family history of osteoporosis, use of steroid medications for more than one month, use of thyroid hormone replacement or increased alcohol consumption.
How often? Every 2 years. However, it may be appropriate to wait longer. Discuss with your health care provider to determine what is best for you.
Colon cancer screening
Why? In the United States, colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths—50,000 per year. It is believed that 60% of those deaths could be prevented with early screening and appropriate treatment.
What? A special device is used to visualize polyps (precancerous lesions) and tumors within the colon and rectum. Tissue samples can be collected (biopsied) and polyps can be removed. Sedation and, sometimes, general anesthesia, will be administered to provide comfort.
When? Age 50 in the general population and age 45 in African Americans. If risk factors are present (e.g. family history of polyps or colon cancer), discuss with your doctor if you should begin screening at an earlier age.
How often? Repeat surveillance in those with a negative test is every 7-10 years until the age of 75. In those with abnormal tests it needs to be repeated more frequently.
Dental checkup
Why? Many problems—cavities, gum disease, oral cancer—may not be obvious until they enter advanced stages. A dentist can spot a problem before it becomes a BIG problem. Additionally, research shows that dental issues can increase your risk of heart disease.
What? Cleaning tartar, plaque, or stains; polishing with a rotating rubber cup or brush; X-rays on some visits; and an examination. Even if you maintain excellent oral hygiene (brushing, flossing), you still need to see your dentist.
When? As children. Yes, as children. But don’t fret; it’s better late than never.
How often? On average, twice a year. This varies depending on the risk of dental disease. Smokers, diabetics, people with current gum disease or with a chronic illness may need to see their dentist more frequently.
I read that a mother is one person who does the work of twenty for free. They are super-givers and it means there is not a lot of spare time to take care of their own health needs. This Mother’s Day, let’s go beyond expressing gratitude to our moms, wives, sisters, girlfriends, and other women in our lives. Let’s give them the gift of encouraging good health so they can continue to be amazing. Happy Mother’s Day!
“I believe in love at first sight. Because I have been in love with my mother since the moment I saw her” –Unknown.
This information is for educational purposes and should not be considered specific medical advice. Always consult with a qualified medical professional regarding your individual circumstances.
Dr. Nina Radcliff is dedicated to her profession, her patients and her community, at large. She is passionate about sharing wise preventive health measures. Contact her on Facebook or Twitter @drninaradcliff.
