Recognizing Senile Purpura
Do you often bruise easily on your arms and legs? Senile purpura is a common condition in people ages 50 and older. It causes purple bruises with red patches to appear on the skin, even from the slightest bump. After a few weeks, the bruises fade and may leave a permanent brown mark. This condition generally requires no treatment, but if you recognize these symptoms, talk to your doctor.
Treating Morbid Obesity
Obesity is becoming a national epidemic, and it’s a serious condition that makes it difficult to breathe, walk and do simple activities. It can lead to other health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Morbid obesity means your BMI, or body mass index (a ratio based on your height and weight), is between 35 and 39.9. A normal BMI is 18.5 to 24.9.
If you are concerned about your weight, tell your doctor. Lifestyle changes— including dietary changes, increased activity and behavioral changes—can help.
Help Confronting Depression
Most people occasionally feel anxious or downhearted, and “seasonal blues” are common around the holidays. But when you have these emotions for weeks, months or years, the whole body suffers and there’s real reason for concern.
Depression affects mental and physical health. And what’s more, it can worsen existing health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. People of all ages experience depression, and there’s no single cause. Depression may run in families, be caused by certain medications, or stem from substance abuse or a major life-changing event, including a serious illness. The signs and symptoms are many and vary in severity and frequency.
If you are sad, are having suicidal thoughts or difficulty sleeping, or have lost interest in hobbies or social interaction, you don’t have to confront these feelings alone. Talk to your doctor for guidance.
