The first signs of systemic disease begin in the foot. We, as podiatrists, see it first and cannot reiterate enough the foot is connected to the rest of the body. Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associates are here to help you take preventative measures and navigate challenges that may present themselves. Prioritizing your needs as you age, change environments, get sick, or have high-risk factors, is important at all of our Healthmark offices. As many women suffer from Vitamin D deficiencies, inflammation or weight gain, osteopenia or osteoporosis, skin and nail challenges, and higher stroke and heart disease risk- our physicians keep track of records and personalize treatment and prevention to keep you well. Screening for these and more is important to know your health is a priority.
Bone Density
A bone density scan (DEXA) is recommended every five years. At Healthmark, we maintain your records and watch for physical changes to better care for you as your bones mature. Preventative scans can put you years ahead in caring for yourself and keep you ahead of the game when calcium supplements may be added to your daily routine.
Vitamin D
Laying out in the sun at the beach once a year on vacation does not supplement your Vitamin D intake, nor do we recommend it for your skin. A lack of Vitamin D is often a major culprit when feeling muscle pain or weakness and can increase your risk of bone fractures.
Hormonal Weight Gain and Inflammation
Regular check-ins with your hormone levels are helpful in monitoring unusual changes or help with weight gain or inflammation that can often appear out of nowhere as we age.
Breast Cancer Screening
It is important, especially after the age of 40 or if Breast Cancer is hereditary, to have regular breast cancer screenings. Your Healthmark physician is concerned about your wellness and will remind you and check in to be sure all important screenings are current.
Vitamin B
A lack of Vitamin B can cause symptoms such as nausea, irritability, fatigue, numbness, and increased heart rate. It is also associated with feeling tired. It is normal for women to take Vitamin B12 supplements. However, at Healthmark, we recommend monitoring your intake to maintain normal and healthy levels.
Skin and Nail Changes
As we age, our skin naturally changes, and our nail health is vital. Podiatrists are credited with being able to observe skin and nail changes that could potentially be something more harmful.
Thyroid
The first signs of hair and skin changes show up in the heel, which can be a sign of a larger problem with the thyroid. The most common thyroid problems come with hypothyroidism. Common symptoms are fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, constipation, hair loss, "brain fog," skin dryness, nail changes, and menstrual cycle changes. Women are at higher risk than men for thyroid problems.
Heart Disease & Stroke
Women are more at risk for heart disease and stroke as they age. A routine checkup will help monitor for signs of potential problems.
Feet
Of course, we cannot leave our feet off of this list. Fatty tissue loss of the foot pad can be common as women age. Your feet are a good overall wellness indicator and can show indicators of diabetes, liver, heart, and neurological problems.
Schedule a routine wellness checkup with your Healthmark Foot & Ankle specialist today.