Your body can alert you of diseases through symptoms so that you address it immediately. However, some have mild or no symptoms and are detected after causing significant and sometimes irrevocable damage. Therefore, it’s vital to know about them to enable you to guard against them. What are some of these diseases and their effects? Here are three silent yet deadly diseases to look out for.
1. Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin sends glucose from the blood to the body cells, where it’s used for energy. However, people with type 2 diabetes can’t respond to insulin, which causes excess blood sugar. CDC reports state that over 34 million Americans have diabetes, with 95% experiencing type 2 diabetes. It’s a chronic condition that affects both young and older people, with dismissible symptoms like constant hunger, fatigue, blurry vision, and excessive thirst. However, slow healing sores and neuropathy can develop as the disease advances.
While there isn’t a cure for type 2 diabetes, you can manage it when it’s detected early. Therefore, it’s prudent to check your blood glucose regularly while paying attention to what you consume. If you’re diagnosed, you may eat foods rich in fiber and healthy carbs and exercise regularly to regulate your blood sugar level. It’s advisable to get enough sleep, check your blood glucose regularly and manage stress to prevent complications.
2. Hypertension
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, develops when your systolic blood pressure is over 130, and diastolic pressure is over 80. While it has no known symptoms, it may cause a heart attack or stroke. According to the American Heart Association, 47% of American adults have hypertension, and 494,873 people have died from the disease. It can also damage the small blood vessels in the brain, heart, and kidney, triggering fatal complications like heart and kidney failure.
You can live everyday life with hypertension, provided you adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. For instance, you should reduce your salt and fat intake and eat potassium-rich foods. It’s also prudent to manage your weight by exercising regularly and limiting alcohol intake. You may also check your blood pressure and visit your doctor regularly for advice to manage your condition. However, you can opt for credible online GP services if you genuinely cannot see your doctor regularly.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease
Kidney disease often progresses silently, and early stages may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. The early signs of kidney disease include increased frequency of urination and difficulty or pain during urination. You may also notice changes in the color and foamy appearance of urine. Persistent fatigue, swelling, shortness of breath, back pain, and hypertension are also manifestations of kidney problems. Prompt assessment is crucial to avoid chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) or chronic kidney failure limits the kidneys’ ability to filter toxins from the blood, causing a dangerous build-up of waste, electrolytes, and fluid in the body. People with CKD usually don’t experience symptoms until their kidneys are irrevocably damaged. A report by the National Kidney Foundation revealed that approximately 34 million people have CKD, with nearly 90% unaware of their condition. If left unchecked, it can cause kidney failure, which requires dialysis or kidney transplant to keep the patient alive.
The best remedy for CKD is early detection, as it can be mitigated without causing significant damage. That means you need to be aware of the common causes of CKD. Once detected, you can make lifestyle changes to slow its progression. For instance, you can adopt a balanced diet while limiting your salt intake and aim for 150 minutes of exercise weekly. It’s also prudent to quit smoking and limit your alcohol consumption while maintaining a healthy weight. It’s also best to avoid over-the-counter NSAIDs as they can aggravate your condition.
Protect Yourself From Silent Deadly Diseases
Protecting yourself from silent, deadly diseases like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease involves adopting a proactive and healthy lifestyle. The key to attaining this goal is discipline by setting time for regular exercise and choosing nutritious food. Moderate consumption of alcohol, sugary food, and high-cholesterol food is advisable. Moreover, avoiding stress through mindfulness and time management is crucial to preventing these diseases.
Consulting a specialist is a must. An endocrinologist specializes in assessing and treating diabetes, ensuring proper management. Additionally, a nephrologist focuses on kidney health, while a cardiologist specializes in heart-related issues. Engaging with these specialists is important for a targeted and effective approach to managing diabetes, kidney health, and cardiovascular conditions. Regular consultations with these healthcare professionals can help in early detection, personalized treatment plans, and overall well-being.
