Visiting a health practitioner even when you’re healthy is important for everyone, you want to be aware of what your body and mind are going through so that you can treat and prevent anything that might compromise your health.
Just like every other person, as women age, their bodies need more attention than before. There are certain changes and developments that they experience considering their health, this is why it is of utmost importance for them to be informed about their health at all times.
Several health publications gave a few checkup suggestions and health screenings that women over the age of 40 should be sure to tick off their list, they are as follows:
Blood pressure screening: The Medline Plus publication states that blood pressure should be checked at least once a year and it can be done at home or through automated machines. “Ask your provider if you need your blood pressure checked more often if: you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or are overweight or have certain other health conditions, you have a first-degree relative with high blood pressure, you are Black, your blood pressure top number is from 120 to 129 mm Hg, or the bottom number is from 70 to 79 mm Hg, you had high blood pressure during pregnancy.”
Breast cancer screening: The source as mentioned earlier also states that breast cancer screening is a crucial process, with mammography being recommended for all women starting at age 40, repeated every 1 to 2 years. It is further mentioned that mammography is best for women aged 40-74, but not for those 75 and older and that if there are other risk factors, an MRI scan may be recommended.
Cervical and vaginal checkup: “Cervical cancer screening recommendations have changed over the last few years. For women 40-65, screening can consist of a pap smear every three years or a pap smear and HPV test (co-testing) every five years,” states Bonafide. The publication clarifies that a pap smear and a yearly gynaecological checkup are not the same things and that this usually causes misunderstanding for many.
Hormonal health: Bonafide also states that hormonal health symptoms in women over 40 include irregular bleeding, hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal changes. “In many instances, treatment is indicated for these disruptive symptoms.”
Cholesterol checkup: According to the Peregian Family Medical Centre, women should start cholesterol screening between 40-45 because at that age they are prone to risks of heart diseases and blood vessel diseases like atherosclerosis or aneurysm, especially during menopause.
Eye test: It is also mentioned by the above publication that eye care professionals recommend a comprehensive eye exam every year to two years, depending on age, risk factors, and contact lens usage. “This is important as the eye is also an indicator of other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and even some types of cancers.”
