Given the fact that medical treatment is now turning into something reaching the unaffordable level, it is always wise, and this especially true of seniors, to know the status of your health and take measures to avoid any serious complications. To do so, a yearly, or even a six-monthly, check-up of the body is advisable. listed below are some of the tests that may be deemed necessary.
Height and Weight
Whether you go for a regular physical or some other check-up, your doctor probably will get your height and weight. They need it to measure your Body Mass Index (BMI). Keeping your BMI in a healthy range helps protect you from things like heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer. Your BMI is based on a formula of height and weight. If you are not in the healthy range, your doctor will suggest ways to help get you there.
Blood Pressure
It’s a measure of the pressure of your blood against your arteries. If it’s too high, your chances of heart disease and stroke go up. normal blood pressure is less than 120 over 80. Doctors define high blood pressure, or hypertension, as 130 over 80 or higher. Devices are now available that can help you check your pressure at home, even everyday if you want to.
Cholesterol
This is a type of fat in your blood. High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and stroke. You should get your cholesterol checked every 1-2 years. Your test results will show your cholesterol levels in milligrams per decilitre of blood. A complete cholesterol test, also called a lipoprotein or lipid profile, will give you results for your HDl (good) cholesterol, lDl (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides, and your total blood (or serum) cholesterol.
Blood Sugar test
This story is from the October 2019 edition of Dignity Dialogue.
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This story is from the October 2019 edition of Dignity Dialogue.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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