The silent diseases They advance without warning and put health systems under control. In this scenario the regular medical examinations They become an important tool to predict serious complications.
In this context The Independent published a guide with five medical examinations essential to assess risks and take care of your health year after year, with recommendations from specialists and the support of Harvard Health.
Detect these problems early reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke and vision loss And oral complications.
He Blood pressure control says according to Dr. Dominic Greenyer, GP and director of The Health Suite in Leicester, tops the list. “Controlling your blood pressure is a good first step, as many people cannot control it.”he explained.
People over 40 years old are recommended to measure pressure at least once a year at home or with professional help.
Greenyer explains that measuring at home in a moment of calm provides more representative results. If you don’t have a blood pressure monitor, you can go to the practice or certain pharmacies. Values above 140/90 mmHg indicate high blood pressure; Values above 180/110 mmHg require urgent medical attention.
The specialist warns that even slightly elevated levels increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks and strokes. High blood pressure can damage the kidneys and affect blood vessels in the brain, eyes, and kidneys.
The Eye test represents another essential control. Denise Voonclinical consultant College of opticiansemphasizes that visual problems can be detected and treated in a timely manner through regular eye examinations.
“Eye diseases can occur at any stage of our lives,” Voon explained.
During the consultation, the optician assesses the quality of vision and the general condition of the eyes, provides information about whether glasses or contact lenses are necessary and identifies possible illnesses. In most cases, testing is recommended every two years, but frequency depends on professional judgment.
Pathologies such as Presbyopia Wave Macular degeneration They usually appear after the age of 40. Healthy habits against using screens and following specialist doctor’s instructions will help you see clearly for longer.
The dental examination It is important to avoid serious complications. Nyree Whitleyclinical director at mydentist, emphasizes the importance of visiting the dentist regularly. “Without chronic screening, conditions such as gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer can go undetected,” he warned.
If you have good oral health, you can go to the dentist every day 12 to 24 months; Those with a medical history or risk factors may require more frequent visits. Consumption of alcohol and tobacco, including chewing tobacco, increases the chance of developing oral cancer.
Timely control of oral problems allows lesions to be detected before they become severe, expanding treatment options and the chances of recovery.
The specialist points out that invitations to these check-ups are usually received by mail or through the family doctor, with the frequency adapted to age and health guidelines. Participation in these examinations increases the likelihood of detecting changes in treatable phases.
He Blood cholesterol analysis It is another test that according to The Independentis often overlooked because high cholesterol causes no obvious symptoms. Dr. Greenyer recommends seeing your primary care doctor to determine if levels are healthy.
A result of more than 5 mmol/L for total cholesterol and more than 3 for LDL cholesterol or less than one in HDL cholesterol is considered highsaid Greenyer. If the values are high, it is recommended to increase physical activity, ideally through strength training, and to reduce processed foods and sugary drinks.
“High cholesterol is a sign of a metabolic disorder,” notes Greenyer. This change indicates a higher future risk of heart disease, heart attacks, strokes and vascular problems.
Finally, the experts quoted from The Independent Remember that if you have any unusual symptoms or complaints, a consultation can significantly change the prognosis. Paying attention to your health and requesting a timely professional assessment is, in many cases, the step that will allow you to access effective treatments.
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