Most people worry about their health at one point or another. It's important to take action if you're concerned about your health, especially if the concern is persistent and affects your daily life. Below are some common health concerns and what you can do to take action.
Dental Issues
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Dental Association recommends starting a child's dentistry visits as soon as the child's first tooth comes in or by his or her first birthday. Many children and adults have dental concerns that need to be addressed. If you or a family member experiences continuous tooth pain, swelling in the mouth, and difficulty eating, it's crucial to contact a dentist and arrange an appointment. Dentists can diagnose the root cause of dental pain, provide treatment through medications and dental work, and provide preventive care.
Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety are common mental health concerns that can affect people of all ages. If you or a family member experiences persistent feelings of sadness, difficulty sleeping, and lack of energy, it's important to seek professional help. You can start by talking to your primary care doctor and get a referral for psychological counseling or therapy.
Counseling and therapy, combined with lifestyle changes, can help people cope with depression and anxiety. It's also important to make sure that your home has a supportive environment. Taking time to talk about feelings, having family therapy sessions, and engaging in self-care are just a few of the things that can help promote better mood and mental health.
Diabetes
Around one in 10 Americans has diabetes, and another one in three has prediabetes. This is a serious health condition that affects your blood sugar and can have long-term consequences for your heart, kidneys, and eyes. If you or a family member experiences frequent thirst, urination, blurred vision, fatigue, and unexpected weight loss or gain, it's important to consult a doctor about diabetes screening. Managing diabetes includes taking medications prescribed by a doctor, tracking blood sugar levels regularly, eating healthy meals at regular intervals, exercising regularly, and following the advice of healthcare professionals. Taking these steps can help manage diabetes and prevent serious complications down the road.
Chronic Pain
Over 70,000 chiropractors are registered in the United States, with many of them helping patients dealing with chronic pain. Whether it's lower back, neck, shoulder, or joint pain, chiropractors are trained to provide pain relief through adjustments of the spine, massage therapy, and other treatments. If you are dealing with chronic pain, it's important to seek medical attention from a licensed chiropractor. Your chiropractor can provide a physical exam to identify the cause of your pain, create a treatment plan, and provide you with information on lifestyle and wellness habits that can help you manage your chronic pain.
Respiratory Issues
According to the American Lung Association, air pollution particles can be smaller than 1/30th the diameter of a human hair, meaning they can get past the body's natural defenses when breathed in. Unfortunately, recent respiratory illnesses such as the COVID-19 virus and other airborne illnesses can affect the respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties and other related issues. If you or a family member has symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pains, and coughing fits, it's important to seek medical attention right away. A doctor can diagnose the cause of your respiratory issues and provide medication or treatment options to help improve your breathing capacity.
No matter what health concern you or a family member is experiencing, it's important to take action. Talk to your primary care doctor about any health conce