- Thyroid testing: Your thyroid health is an essential part of maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle. Underactive thyroid function can result in weight gain, and overactive thyroid function can signal an autoimmune syndrome. Some symptoms that can indicate a thyroid problem include trouble sleeping, unexplained changes in weight, mood swings or out-of-control cholesterol levels. A simple blood test can reveal any limited function in the thyroid and can help your doctor establish appropriate treatments if necessary. Your thyroid test can be included in an annual physical examination or you can request a thyroid test at any time if you feel you are experiencing symptoms associated with thyroid issues.
- Blood pressure screening: Out of control, unchecked blood pressure can lead to serious and life-threatening health conditions such as kidney failure, stroke or heart disease. A regular blood pressure screening (at least every two years if readings have been normal) can ensure that you do not develop blood pressure concerns that go unnoticed. In many cases, your doctor’s office will take a blood pressure reading with a sphygmomanometer every time you visit. You should receive a reading at every annual examination as well. But if you haven’t visited the doctor in some time and haven’t had a reading, you should plan a visit for the specific purpose of having your blood pressure tested.
- Cholesterol screening: The only way to know your cholesterol level is to have a blood test. Many people have no idea whether they are walking around with high cholesterol or if they are within the normal range. Cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease and can require medication and dietary changes to manage it. If you’ve had a bad cholesterol (LDL) reading – higher than 130 -- seek medical help in managing your cholesterol and have your levels rechecked at least annually. If your cholesterol screening reveals a level within the recommended ranges, you can typically wait for five years before being retested.
- Mammogram: While it used to be recommended for all women to receive their first mammogram at age 40, there has been some discrepancy in this advice in recent years. According to the American Cancer Society, women older than 40 should have an annual mammogram to test for breast abnormalities, possibly signaling breast cancer or other health concerns. However, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently issued a conflicting statement that women do not necessarily need to be tested until age 50. Basically, if you have a history of breast cancer in your family or have had your own breast health concerns in the past, you may need to seek mammogram testing earlier in life. Consult your doctor for guidance on the best approach.
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6 Tests Every Woman Over 40 Needs
May 03, 2024
6 Tests Every Woman Over 40 Needs
