6 Age-Related Health Problems

6 Age-Related Health Problems

Aging is a fact of life, and good health can mean the difference between enjoying life at every age or aging with debilitating health conditions. John Huffman, MD, and the care team at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists want to help you live life to the fullest at every age. 

That’s why Dr. Huffman offers customized age management care for patients at our Arlington, Virginia, offices. Age management care uses a proactive approach and focuses on all aspects of your health to ensure you maintain your vitality and quality of life no matter your age. 

Our practice also believes in patient education to help you better understand the issues that affect older adults most. Take a moment to learn about six common age-related health problems and how we can help. 

1. Heart disease

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the number one cause of death for men and women in the United States. Atherosclerosis, or a buildup of plaque and fatty deposits, is the most common type of heart disease in seniors.

The good news is that heart disease is not a normal part of the aging process. By working with your team at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid developing heart disease.    

2. Hypertension

Hypertension (chronic high blood pressure) is common in the United States, affecting over 70% of Americans ages 65 and older. Unfortunately, this condition, which is linked to stroke and other heart disease, doesn’t have any noticeable symptoms so it’s important to get regular check-ins with Dr. Huffman.   

3. Chronic pain

Many older Americans struggle with chronic pain. In fact, studies indicate between 55-85% of adults over 65 experience some form of chronic pain. Dr. Huffman and the team at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists specialize in helping patients of all ages manage chronic pain using a wide variety of treatment approaches through our pain management services.  

4. Osteoarthritis

Arthritis affects more than one out of every five Americans, and over one-third of them are over 65. The most common form of arthritis affecting older adults is osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that results due to wear and tear on the joints, though other types of arthritis can affect you at any age. 

Dr. Huffman examines your symptoms and makes personalized arthritis recommendations based on the type of arthritis you have, including treatments like:

In some cases, joint replacement surgery may be the best option if other strategies aren’t successful. 

5. Osteoporosis

As we age, our bodies begin to absorb old bone tissue faster than they can make new bone tissue. As a result, many older Americans begin to develop thinner, weaker bones. Over time, this can lead to osteoporosis, a disease that leads to over 1.5 million fractures every year. The best way to know if you’re at risk is to get a bone density screening to identify the condition and any signs you’re at risk. 

6. Cancer

Advancing age is the single biggest predictor of getting cancer, with more than half of all cancers occurring in people over age 65. Scientists aren’t sure why older people are more susceptible to cancer, but advanced age doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get diagnosed with a form of the disease. 

With the help of Dr. Huffman and your Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists team, you can adopt healthy habits that reduce your risk of getting cancer, such as maintaining a healthy weight, cutting out red and processed meats, switching to a plant-based, whole-foods diet, exercising regularly, and getting routine screenings. 

How age management care helps

At Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists, we know age is more than a number. That’s why our team of healthcare professionals uses a holistic approach combining the best therapeutic modalities available to help you live life well at every age. 

Dr. Huffman and our team use a variety of advanced diagnostic and treatment approaches, including but not limited to:

Before recommending a specific age-management treatment plan, our team evaluates your family and medical histories, reviews any current symptoms, and conducts a comprehensive physical and neurological exam to develop a plan specifically for you. 

Contact Dr. Huffman and the team at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists in Northern Virginia to learn more about age-related health concerns or to get started with age management care. You can reach our friendly office staff at 571-210-1813 or book a consultation online now. 

You Might Also Enjoy...

Is Working From Home a Pain in Your Neck?

The number of US adults working from home (WFH) has tripled. And while there’s no doubt about the many benefits WFH provides, for some, it can be a literal pain in the neck. Keep reading to learn why and what you can do to avoid neck pain.

5 Non-invasive Treatment Options for Your Sciatica Pain

Sciatica pain, which develops when a nerve in your lower back gets pinched or compressed, can derail you from your normal activities. Learn how to get relief from the shooting pain this condition causes—no needles or surgery required!

The Link Between Alcohol Abuse and Neuropathy

Struggling with tingling or pain in your extremities? A nerve condition called neuropathy could be to blame. Learn how alcohol abuse and neuropathy go hand in hand, and the ways we help support your health.

The Many Benefits of IV Therapy

You may have heard about IV therapy for giving a much-needed energy boost. But did you know this treatment can address chronic and acute conditions and help you optimize your health and wellness? Here’s what you need to know.

Why Is PRP Growing in Popularity?

If you’re dealing with chronic pain, then you should know about the all-natural treatment that eases discomfort and promotes healing. Learn how platelet-rich plasma injections work and why this treatment is growing in popularity.