Forty is certainly a significant milestone, but this decade is also when the subtle signs of ailing health can begin to make themselves known. Some of the changes you see will simply be due to natural aging, but there are many that are serious “red flag” symptoms that require prompt medical attention. Having your signs and symptoms evaluated swiftly is the best way of protecting your long-term health. Here are 8 warning signs that you should never ignore when over the age of 40.
Chronic Unexplained Fatigue
There is a significant difference between the tiredness brought on by the stress of modern living and the exhaustion that seems to seep into your bones after a full night of sleep. Chronic tiredness can indicate the early signs of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), anemia, or even early heart disease.
Frequent or Severe Headaches
When a headache develops over the age of 40, particularly if they wake you from your sleep, is very severe, or is unlike your usual tension headaches, it should be checked out. These new and/or severe headaches can be an indicator of high blood pressure or an early neurological disorder.
Changes in a Mole’s Appearance
As our age rises, so does the risk of melanoma, and any moles that have been present for many years but have recently altered in size, border, shape, color, or elevation need to be assessed immediately by a GP using the ‘ABCDE’ guide for melanoma, which includes Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving change.
Heartburn or Indigestion occurring regularly
Regular heartburn or indigestion experienced week after week signifies an issue other than indigestion caused by spicy foods. Continuous and long-term heartburn with reflux acid can be a precursor to pre-cancerous changes in the esophagus.
Blurred Vision or Difficulty Seeing at Night
With aging, our vision declines through the development of presbyopia, and blurred vision will be noticeable throughout the day. It can, however, be an early sign of the development of glaucoma, cataracts, or even diabetic retinopathy, and as such will require evaluation.
Changes in Bowel Habits
If there have been significant changes in your bowel movements, you have persistent diarrhea or constipation, or notice changes in your stool caliber, for any length of time, then they should be looked at as the early signs of colorectal cancer.
Persistent Joint Pain and/or Stiffness
Mild aches and pains are one thing, but painful and stiff joints that linger even after waking may indicate early signs of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. The joint pain and stiffness are often more prolonged, lasting for more than 30 minutes after rising from bed before easing off.
Subtle Memory Lapses and Brain Fog
While it is common to forget where you have put your keys at any age, a consistent inability to recall basic everyday facts and information, or finding it difficult to think and access words or simple skills, is a potential sign of a change to your cognition that needs further examination.
