Certain medical conditions have become so common that, in many cases, people with these conditions often tend to ignore that the condition exists and let it go untreated. Unfortunately, many of these common conditions can lead to other medical problems down the road. Here’s a list of five medical conditions that should not go untreated.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is often a precursor to heart attack and stroke. High blood pressure has also been linked to diabetes. Get blood pressure under control by eating a healthy, low sodium diet and exercising regularly. It is also wise to get your blood sugar checked and take early precautions to prevent diabetes like maintaining a healthy weight and limiting the intake of sugar and refined starches.
High Cholesterol
High levels of cholesterol in the blood cause buildup commonly referred to as plaque, along arterial walls. This buildup can lead to hear disease and cause heart attack. Cholesterol can be easily controlled by eating a diet high in protein and fiber and low in saturated and trans fat. Regular exercise can also assist with lowering cholesterol. When diet and exercise alone does not work, a doctor may prescribe medication to lower cholesterol.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea occurs when breathing pauses during sleep due to an obstructed or collapsed airway. Sleep apnea has been linked to hear disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. In some cases, sleep apnea can lead to death due to heart attack. The most common signs of sleep apnea are snoring, disrupted sleep, and daytime fatigue. Sleep apnea is common in severely overweight people. While undergoing sleep apnea treatment, losing weight can significantly improve sleep apnea.
Migraines
In most cases, migraines can be treated with an over-the-counter pain reliever. However, there may be more behind a migraine than one may think. Studies have found that those who suffer from frequent migraines are at risk for having a heart attack or stroke. Preventing migraines will not reduce the odds. However, you can lower your odds by losing excess weight, lowering cholesterol, quitting smoking, and eating a heart healthy diet.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Also known as GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease is an uncomfortable condition that can lead to other heath issues. GERD can cause esophageal stricture. Esophageal stricture occurs when scar tissue forms along the walls of the esophagus making it difficult and painful to swallow large pieces of food. GERD can also worsen symptoms of asthma and other respiratory disorders. GERD can also be responsible for tooth decay, esophageal ulcers, and esophageal cancer.
Getting regular check ups and explaining all of your symptoms to your doctor can prevent further illness. Listening to your body and following your doctor’s orders may be the best thing that one can do for themselves.