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For many people, living with a chronic medical condition means accepting that their lives may be in danger. However, this doesn’t have to be the case; there are ways to manage common life-threatening medical conditions and live a healthy life. This article will discuss the eight most common life-threatening medical conditions and provide management tips.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries that can lead to blockages, preventing blood flow to the heart. Risk factors for developing heart disease include obesity, smoking, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and a sedentary lifestyle.
To manage heart disease, it is vital to make healthy lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and managing any underlying conditions. Medications may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of further complications or treat existing symptoms.
People with heart disease are at risk of cardiac arrest, a medical emergency. Knowing the signs and symptoms of cardiac arrest and how to perform CPR is essential. This will give the patient time as you wait for emergency medical services to arrive. These highly trained individuals from institutes like Newcastle Training will have all the needed resources and knowledge to help you in such situations until you reach a hospital.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension occurs when the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. This can damage organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys. Risk factors for high blood pressure include smoking, being overweight or obese, an unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity.
It is important to manage high blood pressure by making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet low in sodium and saturated fat, and reducing alcohol consumption and stress levels. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure. Regular doctor visits are necessary to monitor blood pressure and manage it properly.
Seizures
Seizures are sudden episodes caused by abnormal brain activity caused by various factors ranging from genetics to drug use or head injuries. Seizures can range from mild twitching movements up to the loss of consciousness depending on the type and severity of seizure disorder present in a person.
To minimize the risk associated with seizures, it is crucial for individuals who have been diagnosed with epilepsy or other seizure disorders to take their medications as prescribed by their doctor and avoid triggers such as alcohol consumption or bright flashing lights whenever possible. Additionally, individuals should ensure they’re getting enough rest each night to reduce stress levels, which could trigger a seizure episode in those who frequently suffer from this condition.
Obesity
Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. Excess weight increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and some types of cancer.
The best way to manage obesity is through lifestyle changes such as following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting saturated fats and added sugars can help you lose weight. Additionally, engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily can help you maintain a healthy weight. Medications or bariatric surgery are sometimes needed to help with weight loss.
Burns
Burns are caused by contact with extreme heat or cold temperatures or exposure to chemicals or electricity. Proper care for different types of burns depends on the severity of the burn; third- degree burns should be treated immediately by a doctor or other healthcare professional, while minor first-degree burns may only require simple home treatments like running cool water over the area for five minutes and applying a burn cream.
It is recommended to seek medical attention for any burn larger than the size of your palm and for second-degree burns that cause redness, swelling, and blistering. Additionally, it is vital to protect your skin from further damage by wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves and gloves when handling hot or sharp objects.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. Diabetes is caused by either too little insulin production (type 1 diabetes) or insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes). People with diabetes are at an increased risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Proper management includes to:
- Monitor blood sugar levels regularly through testing kits available at pharmacies and follow dietary guidelines set forth by your doctor, including avoiding sugary foods and drinks
- Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day instead of large meals three times daily
- Exercise regularly
- Quit smoking or alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight and take any medications your healthcare provider prescribes to help control blood sugar levels
Stroke
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts, preventing oxygen and nutrients from reaching the brain cells. This can result in lasting physical and cognitive problems. Stroke can be cured by administering clot-busting medication and a procedure to remove the clot from the artery. Other treatments, such as aspirin or anticoagulants, may also be prescribed. It is vital to make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a nutritious diet to reduce the risk of stroke recurrence.
It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke, which include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty seeing in one eye, dizziness, confusion, and slurred speech. If you think someone may be having a stroke, call 911 immediately.
Mental Health Disorders
Mental health disorders are conditions that affect mood, thoughts, or behaviors. Common mental health disorders include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Proper management of mental health disorders can help manage symptoms, reduce the risk of relapse, and improve the overall quality of life.
Treatment for mental health disorders generally involves a combination of therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, medications, or other alternative treatments. Practicing self-care and spending time with supportive friends and family is essential.
To maintain a healthy lifestyle, being mindful of your physical and mental health is vital. By making the necessary lifestyle changes, taking prescribed medications, and attending regular doctor visits, you can effectively manage conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, burns, and seizures. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, speaking with your healthcare provider is crucial.