Having a family doctor you trust is important. Seeing the same doctor multiple years in a row enables them to identify differences in your health, but it also enables you to build a relationship with a person you trust. That can make things a lot easier as you age.
Our bodies change throughout our lifetimes, but you’re likely to notice quite a few changes after you turn 40. In order to stay healthy into your 50’s, 60’s, and beyond, it’s important to talk to your doctor about these five things.
Your Birth Control Options
When you think about talking to your doctor after you turn 40, you probably aren’t thinking about birth control. However, it’s an important consideration.
First, you should talk with your doctor about any birth control methods you used in the past, and how they may be affecting your health today. For example, some women experience the Mirena Crash, which can cause symptoms of lethargy, insomnia, mood swings, and more.
You should also talk to your doctor about your birth control options moving forward. They can provide you with options that are appropriate for your age so you don’t discover that you’re accidentally pregnant in your 40’s!
Supplements You Should Consider Taking
It’s normal for our bodies to change as we age. Not only have you probably noticed a few new wrinkles on your face, but you have probably noticed that your body feels different too. Talk about these differences with your doctor and ask if they can recommend any vitamins that will help.
Common complaints include deteriorating muscle mass, weight gain, and symptoms that are associated with menopause. Certain vitamins may be recommended by your doctor that include:
• B12 assists with normal brain function
• Calcium can keep your bones strong
• Vitamin D can help prevent heart disease and breast cancer
• Magnesium and potassium can keep your blood pressure in check
Your doctor can also recommend things that aren’t technically vitamins, like Omega-3s and probiotics, that can help too.
Health Screenings and When to Take Them
There are certain screenings you should be getting throughout your lifetime. For example, doctors have probably already been taking your blood pressure and providing you with necessary immunizations long before your 40th birthday. These general screenings should continue as you age, but there are additional health tests you should take as you get older.
After you reach 40, you’ll want to talk to your doctor about whether it’s appropriate to schedule a mammogram, a colon cancer screening, or if you should visit a dermatologist to rule out the possibility of skin cancer. In addition to taking some new health tests, you may also want to ask your doctor if there are any tests you should have more frequently. For example, your doctor may recommend getting an eye exam more often, and they may recommend that you schedule an appointment with your dentist.
Fitness Tips to Avoid Injury
Exercise is important, no matter what your age. Unfortunately, it can get a bit more difficult as you get older. After all, your body doesn’t move the way it used to, and it definitely doesn’t recover like it used to!
If you’re struggling to find exercises you enjoy, or if you’re worried about an injury setting you back, ask your doctor for fitness tips that will help.
For example, your doctor can provide you with tips on warming up your body so you don’t stress out your muscles. They can recommend sources of protein that are healthy to consume after exercise, and they can provide you with exercise ideas. From balance exercises to maintaining your hourglass figure, there are many ways you can continue to stay active well into your 40’s.
Your Family’s Health History
Your family’s history is important to your health, but if it’s something you haven’t paid attention to before, it’s time to pay attention to it when you turn 40. There are a lot of problems that can be fixed with diet and exercise when you’re younger, but genetics can catch up with you as you age. Make sure to research your health history and share your findings with your doctor at your next appointment. Going to the doctor isn’t any fun, but it can help you look and feel your best after you turn 40. When you schedule your next appointment, talk with your doctor about these things to make sure the last half of your life is as comfortable and healthy as possible.
