Getting sick is inevitable in life, and sometimes there’s nothing you can do about it. You can take all of the necessary precautions, but if viruses or bacteria find their way into your bloodstream, you are going to get ill. And some conditions are genetic, meaning there is only so much you can do to reduce your risk. Still, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make an effort to prevent yourself from becoming sick. These three diseases are far too common, yet there are certain steps anyone can take that will contribute positively toward preventing the worst from occurring.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is one of the most common upper respiratory issues in the United States. It affects 37 million people every year, and has some of the most annoying symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Stuffy or blocked nose
- Pressure behind the eyes
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Post-nasal drip
These symptoms are uncomfortable, distracting, and just plain frustrating. You can, however, take some steps to avoid sinusitis if you know the common sources of a sinus infection. First, take care to keep your environment free of any aerial contaminants. These could be anything from cigarette smoke and dust particles to pollen and mold spores. Second, if you feel congestion beginning to rear its sniffly head, lay off swimming and diving for a while, as these activities are known causes of sinusitis. Also, if you are showing any symptoms of this condition, visit an urgent care center, not an emergency room, right away. A recent Milliman study revealed that approximately 44% to 65% of all ER episodes could have been treated in urgent care clinic settings.
Obesity
Nationwide, more than a third of all adults struggle with obesity. This is a disease characterized by excessive body fat and is the result of a number of socio-economic factors. The real and present dangers of obesity are legion.
Men with a Body Mass Index score of 30 or higher are seven times more likely to develop type two diabetes. Women are 12 times more likely. Heart disease, certain cancers, strokes, depression, respiratory disease, and memory issues are also much more likely in obese individuals.
Preventing obesity is easier than reversing it, but both preventing and reversing obesity jobs easier said than done. Treatment and prevention options overlap and involve the cliched eat less and exercise more mantra that has been preached for years.
Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is a cognitive impairment illness that accounts for up to 80% of dementia diagnoses, but the exact number isn’t known. It is terminal and if you are one of the unlucky people who develop Alzheimer’s, the cognitive degradation symptoms are unavoidable in the long run. Still, there are certain steps you can take to stave off the worst symptoms.
Research suggests regular exercise can reduce your risk of developing the disease by half. Social engagement is an excellent way to find sustained intellectual stimulation, a known method of combating early-onset Alzheimer’s. A healthy diet and regular sleep promote better mental health as well. Perhaps the most important thing you can do to prevent or ward off the worst Alzheimer’s symptoms is to continue learning new things every day.
Getting sick is a part of life. Humans are made up of organic matter that is susceptible to intrusions from viruses, bacteria, and simple wear and tear over time. The best things you can do to prevent sickness is lead a healthful, whole, and wonderful life.