Is leading a healthy lifestyle a priority for you? If yes, what makes you so sure? Well, if your answer is that you are feeling okay or you aren’t sick, just know it doesn’t make you healthy. Health problems can be as silent as a stone and you wouldn’t know it. They only make noise when things go worse and beyond repair.
That’s why it is essential for you to keep a close eye and listen carefully to take control of the steering wheel of your health. Here are some of the most common health problems that are labelled “silent killers” by health experts across the world.
So, let’s get started, shall we?
Diabetes
It cannot come as a surprise as diabetes is now one of the most common health conditions in India. As per stats, one in three people suffers from diabetes. The fact that it has become so common is the reason why people don’t take it seriously. They live with diabetes or have made diabetes their way of life.
But here’s a truth bomb alert. Diabetes is serious enough to be fatal if it is not controlled. Not to mention, it can cause blindness, kidney damage, heart disease and stroke.
Although there is no known cause of diabetes, it can be genetic, or result when you lead an unhealthy lifestyle.
Diabetes cannot be cured completely but it can be managed. Exercising, eating a healthy diet, limiting sugar, and ensuring that you don’t maintain long gaps between meals, all count towards managing diabetes.
High blood pressure
Another silent disease where symptoms don’t present themselves until it’s too late. High blood pressure can impact the arteries and heart for the worse. Consequently, one may become more prone to heart attacks, stroke, and heart failure, among other serious heart diseases.
High blood pressure refers to the increased pressure of the blood flow against the walls of your blood vessels. Remember, your heart creates pressure to push blood through the blood vessels. When this pressure increases substantially, it can lead to formation of clots, which can block blood flow to the heart, resulting in heart diseases and failure.
As the symptoms of hypertension or blood pressure (BP) are silent, one needs to undergo regular blood pressure checks to ensure that their BP is as it should be. Some of the ways of controlling BP is ensuring that you consume a diet that is rich in protein, potassium, fibre, and low in salt. Additionally, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight and boycotting smoking are also helpful.
Fatty liver disease
Fatty liver disease, or hepatic steatosis, is a condition where fat accumulates in liver cells. It comes in two main types: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease. NAFLD is prevalent among those who consume minimal or no alcohol. It can range from non-alcoholic fatty liver (mild) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH, severe), marked by inflammation and potential scarring. Alcoholic fatty liver disease results from excessive alcohol intake.
Fatty liver disease is dangerous due to its potential progression as it can lead to liver fibrosis, scarring, and ultimately cirrhosis, all of which can damage liver cells, increasing the risk of liver cancer.
High cholesterol
High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, is a condition where there is an excess of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that the body needs for various functions but can become a health concern when levels are elevated.
High cholesterol is dangerous because it contributes to the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. These deposits, called plaques, can narrow and clog the arteries, restricting blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain. When the plaques rupture, they can trigger blood clots, leading to heart attacks and strokes.
Closing thoughts
These serious conditions often develop without noticeable symptoms until it’s too late. The key takeaway is the importance of regular check-ups and health awareness. By understanding the risk factors and making healthy choices, we can catch these issues early and take action to protect our well-being. Your health is your most valuable asset, and staying informed and proactive can be your best defence against these hidden threats. It’s all about taking control of your health and well-being for a longer, happier life.
