Top Issues That Affect Women’s Health

Understand your risk so you know how to better manage it.

A woman’s health needs are different from men. There are certain issues, illnesses and conditions that are more likely to impact women and it’s important that you have a doctor that understands your unique health care needs. Our Austin, TX, family doctors Dr. Paul Keinarth and Dr. Kelly Alberda of Margolin, Keinarth & Alberda Family Health Center are always here to provide preventive care to support women’s health.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. The NIH reports that 1 in 4 women in the US will die from heart disease. The good news is that you can do something to reduce your risk. Leading a healthy lifestyle that includes proper diet and exercise, stress management and eliminating bad habits (e.g. smoking; alcohol consumption) can drastically reduce your risk. Our Austin, TX, women’s health team can pinpoint risk factors and help you make simple changes to your lifestyle.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the US, according to the CDC. Because of this, it’s recommended that all women start getting mammograms at age 40. Women who have a family history of breast cancer should speak with their doctor about when to start getting screened and how often.

Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is on the rise in the US, and we all know that serious health complications can arise from having diabetes. Fortunately, there are certain ways to reduce your risk for diabetes. Simply by turning to our team once a year to check blood sugar levels and by leading a healthy lifestyle you could reduce your risk.

Mental Health Disorders

Depression and anxiety are two of the most common types of mental health problems that women face. This is particularly common in women after childbirth or during menopause. Our team understands that hormonal changes can also bring about mental health problems, and we can help you manage these symptoms. You don’t have to suffer and you don’t have to do it alone.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Unfortunately, women are more likely to deal with more serious complications and issues due to sexually transmitted infections. Untreated infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can impact fertility, lead to ectopic pregnancies and cause severe pelvic pain. It’s important that you are practicing safe sex and getting tested regularly if you are sexually active.

Stroke

Did you know that stroke kills twice as many women as breast cancer? That’s what the CDC reports (we’re just the messengers!). While women will experience a lot of the same symptoms of stroke as men (e.g. numbness or weakness in the face; vision changes; dizziness) they also report other symptoms that may be less likely to bring women to the hospital including,

  • Nausea
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Hiccups

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis or weakening of the bones is common in women as they age. Since osteoporosis can increase your risk for serious fractures, it’s important that you are turning to your doctor regularly for checkups and blood work so they can detect and help you manage your osteoporosis.

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders are a common problem amongst women and many don’t even know they have it. Thyroid disorders are often the leading cause of fatigue, exhaustion, brain fog and other problems that may leave you feeling wiped out and unable to get through your daily activities. If this sounds like you, you may want to have bloodwork performed by our team to evaluate your thyroid function.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases are another cause of chronic fatigue. Rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s autoimmune thyroiditis, lupus and celiac disease are just some of the common autoimmune diseases women can develop. If you notice persistent low-grade fevers, swollen glands, joint pain, digestive issues and fatigue, these could be signs of an autoimmune disorder.

Menopause

Menopause isn’t exactly a “threat” to women’s health but it can cause some pretty unpleasant symptoms. If you are dealing with hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, weight gain and fatigue, our Austin, TX, team can work with you to find remedies and solutions including hormone replacement therapy to better manage symptoms of menopause.

Are you looking for a doctor that provides comprehensive women’s health care in Austin, TX? If so, call Dr. Paul Keinarth and Dr. Kelly Alberda of Margolin, Keinarth & Alberda Family Health Center today at (512) 459-9889 to schedule a consultation.

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