Midlife is the time when you are no longer young, but you don’t feel old yet. As you cross into your 40s, it’s a time of crisis, which has been the subject of numerous shows and movies. But very few speak seriously about the health issues that come with a midlife crisis.
If you're approaching or currently in your midlife, here are seven things to know about your health during this stage of life.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations are a sign of midlife for both men and women. Women often experience perimenopause, the transitional phase leading to menopause, which can cause symptoms like:
- Hot flashes
- Mood swings
- Changes in menstrual cycle
Men may go through andropause, a gradual decline in testosterone levels, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, and mood changes.
It's important to be aware of these hormonal changes and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Bone Health
Bone density tends to peak in early adulthood and gradually declines after that, which makes midlife an important time to focus on bone health, says a study in the journal Therapeutic Advances in Musculoskeletal Disease.
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Women, in particular, are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis, or weak and brittle bones, as per research carried out by Mansoor U. Keen, Anil Kumar Reddy Reddivari. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, along with regular walking and strength training, can help maintain good bone health during midlife and beyond.
Heart Health
Midlife is a crucial time to pay attention to your heart health as the risk of cardiac disease increases with age. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle can all contribute to heart disease. Regular check-ups are important, as is monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Also, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and manage your stress..
Mental Health
Midlife can also bring about changes in mental health. Many people experience increased stress due to various factors. Hormonal changes can also affect mood and emotional well-being. It's important to prioritise mental health during midlife by practicing stress management techniques, seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist, and practicing self-care activities.
Weight Management
Midlife is a time when metabolism tends to slow down, making weight management more challenging. However, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall health as it can impact many aspects, including heart health, joint health, and diabetes risk. Eating a well-balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding excessive alcohol intake can all help.
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Vision and Hearing
Many people may start to experience presbyopia, a condition where the ability to focus up close declines, or age-related hearing loss. Regular eye exams and hearing tests can help detect any issues early and allow for appropriate management, such as prescription glasses or hearing aids. Adults who do not have any symptoms or risk factors for eye illness should undergo a baseline examination at the age of 40, according to an expert study.
Midlife is a phase of life that comes with its own set of health issues. It is critical to be aware of these changes and male efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Being proactive with screenings and testing will help you traverse midlife with optimal health and well-being.
