Healthcare is a big topic in today’s world, especially with rising costs and the importance of proper diet and exercise. There are some surprising facts about women’s health that you may not know. Understanding what these issues are, including arthritis, asthma, and vaginal infections, can prepare you to deal with them if they affect your health.

Arthritis

One of the most common disabilities that can affect women is arthritis. This disability includes conditions affecting your joints and the tissues surrounding them. Arthritis is a painful disease that causes your joints to become stiff. This makes it difficult to perform tasks you’ve completed all your life.

You will need more than general healthcare to address this condition if it develops. Check with your doctor about starting a physical activity program designed to improve the quality of life of those suffering from arthritis. Studies have shown that physical activity can reduce your pain and improve both your mood and ability to move.

Vaginal infections

If you are between the ages of 15 and 44, you are at an increased risk for bacterial vaginosis. This condition results from having too much bacteria in your vagina, which changes your normal, healthy balance. It is not known what, if any, sexual activity affects the development of this disease and most women report having no symptoms. BV can go away without treatment, but it is recommended you have a checkup and talk about treatment. Antibiotics are often prescribed for this type of infection.

Opioid overdoses

Cases of women overdosing on opioids are increasing in the United States, with more than 47,000 deaths reported between 1999 and 2010. These prescription drugs are given to women for chronic pain and tend to be used longer than necessary. It is reported that women use this drug for longer than men, and an average of 18 women die every day from overdoses. This problem continues to grow and healthcare providers are becoming more aware of it. They are beginning to limit and watch opioid use, while still providing pain medications to women who need them.

Asthma

Women have more problems with asthma than men. African Americans and older women have a higher risk of developing asthma and some die from the condition. There are triggers for asthma attacks that you should be aware of and avoid. Reduce or eliminate your exposure to dust mites, cigarette smoke, pet dander, cockroaches, mold, and other air pollutants. These triggers are not always avoidable, so it is important to know how to handle asthma attacks when they occur. Your physician can help develop a plan to deal with the condition and prevent attacks.

Infertility problems

6% of women between the ages of 15 and 44 living in the United States struggle with infertility. This issue can include having trouble getting pregnant and not being able to carry a baby to full term. There are many factors that increase your risk of becoming infertile such as being overweight, having an untreated STD, and smoking. Drinking too much alcohol and experiencing too much stress can also contribute to infertility. Infertility can be treated by your doctor with medicine or assisted reproductive technology. Your doctor will evaluate the reasons behind your specific case of infertility and work with you to help increase your chances of pregnancy.

Unusual menstrual bleeding

More than 10 million women in the United States suffer from unusual menstrual bleeding lasting longer than 7 days. Some cycles last more than 7 days, while others produce unusually heavy bleeding. Either of these situations could show you are suffering from a bleeding disorder. Many women do not consider these symptoms to be alarming, but that their body is behaving different than most other women. If you have longer than usual or heavier than normal bleeding, talk to your doctor about getting treatment. This disorder could have an impact on your quality of life and reproductive health.

Get comprehensive women’s healthcare in Amarillo, TX

If you would like to experience excellent women’s healthcare in Amarillo, Texas, contact the physicians at Women’s Healthcare Associates today. Our caring Staff offers personal care that focuses on the health and well-being of every patient. Our Services include bone density screening, digital mammography, prenatal and pregnancy care, contraception, bioTE hormone optimization, Thermiva and the Priapus “O” shot. To learn more about how our comprehensive women’s healthcare can help you, call us at 806-355-6330 or Contact Us.