As women age, they become susceptible to various health disorders. Some of the common health disorders affecting women also affect men, but a lot of them do not. It is important to understand what types of problems you, as a woman, are predisposed toward, as well as how you can prevent or treat these conditions. For some conditions, orthopedic care, surgery and treatment can address the issue.

1. Problems During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a normal time of life for a lot of women, but it’s well understood that it may come with health issues, including pre-eclampsia, premature labor, and various orthopedic conditions. Back pain during pregnancy is common, as is joint soreness, clicking and popping, due to the effect of hormones on the bones and joints in the body. Asking your obstetrician for a list of orthopedic specialists in your area may help you get through the worst of the pain.

2. Obesity

Obesity can cause a myriad of problems for women, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke and various problems with the bones and muscles in the body. If you are obese, you may require orthopedic services to reduce your pain in your knees, feet, hips or back to the point that you can exercise and lose more weight. This can create a positive cycle, leading to better overall health.

3. Heart Disease

Heart disease is the number one killer for both men and women. It can not only cause an early death, but it can seriously impede your ability to get around, because its symptoms include shortness of breath and difficulty doing even routine tasks like bending down or climbing stairs. If you have risk factors for heart disease, such as obesity or being a smoker, see your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.

4. Cancer

Breast and lung cancer are the number one and number two most common cancers in women, respectively. Risk factors include obesity, smoking, a history of radiation to the chest and family history. Talk to your physician about whether you are at particular risk for developing cancer, and discuss tests that you can take to determine whether preventative measures may be appropriate for you.

5. Falls

Particularly as you age, you may be more at risk for falls which might cause serious injury, such as a broken hip. Talking to orthopedic specialists now will allow you to learn strengthening techniques that may prevent falls in the future.

6. Osteoporosis

Similarly, older women are prone to the dangers of developing osteoporosis. This is a disease which affects the bones, and may contribute to falls and bone breakage. Taking calcium through your childbearing years may help prevent osteoporosis. Do not take any vitamins or supplements without talking to your doctor first, however.

7. Diabetes

Particularly if you are overweight or if you have a family history of diabetes, you may be at risk for developing this insidious disease. Over time, diabetes can damage the eyes, skin and nerves in the body. Diabetics may also require orthopedic services. It is important to be screened for diabetes regularly, especially if you have risk factors.

8. High Blood Pressure

Often called the Silent Killer, high blood pressure, or hypertension, is common in adults. Since hypertension often causes no symptoms, it is vital that your doctor test you yearly for signs that you may be prone to developing high blood pressure. In its early stages, it might be controlled by lifestyle changes, but in some cases, medication is necessary.

9. Motor Vehicle Accidents

The leading cause of accidental death in both men and women is motor vehicle accidents. Never drive drunk, pull over if you are too tired to drive, and always wear your seatbelt. If you do get into an accident, see your general practitioner as well as an orthopedic specialist to assess you for injuries and administer appropriate treatment.

10. Pneumonia

Often caused by influenza, pneumonia kills many women every year. Talk to your doctor about whether you should receive an annual flu shot to help prevent pneumonia. There is also a pneumonia vaccine available, if you are at high risk of developing this respiratory condition.

For me, I work closely with my Indianapolis orthopedic surgeons on plenty of health-related issues. There are obviously many more health conditions and risk factors that women are susceptible to. Please consult a doctor to prolong your lifespan, along with enhance the quality of your life. These professionals can assist you in living in a health, pain-free manner, well into your golden years.