Getting the flu or an infection in your 20s may not be a big deal, you’re young and healthy so can usually fight it off easily. However, these same conditions in your old age can be a lot more serious. You should no longer just shrug it off when you start noticing new symptoms. Here are some symptoms to look out for as you age that could indicate a more serious concern.

Weight loss

Many seniors experience a reduced appetite as they age. Their hunger signals become weaker and the amount that they can comfortably eat reduces, which often results in weight loss. So, it’s even more important that seniors pursue a balanced diet to avoid risks of malnutrition.

However, if you notice that you are losing weight without trying to or without eating less than you usually do, then this could be a warning sign of something more serious, including cancer and thyroid problems.

Cold and flu symptoms

Pneumonia is a complication of colds and the flu that is more common in seniors, and it can cause hospitalization or even become fatal. There’s no point in worrying that you have pneumonia every time you get a cold, but it’s important to be more vigilant when you notice these kinds of symptoms and to visit your doctor if you are worried.

Oral health problems

Oral health problems such as tooth decay, tooth loss, and gum disease become more common in our senior years, so it’s important to be even more vigilant with your oral care and to keep visiting your dentist regularly. If you have sore gums, then you should see your dentist or doctor as this could be a sign of gum disease, which is also linked with heart disease and other heart problems.

Fatigue

It’s normal for us to have more energy in our younger years and experience more fatigue and lower energy levels as we age, but this doesn’t mean you should just shrug off symptoms of fatigue. Feeling tired all the time could potentially indicate a number of health problems, from physical conditions like heart problems to mental health issues such as depression. Loneliness and depression can become more common among seniors and is an issue that should not be ignored.

Forgetfulness

Another normal sign of aging is a worsened memory, but it’s important that you can recognize the difference between normal memory problems and more serious issues that could be a sign of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. See a doctor for their opinion if you’re worried about your memory problems or those of a loved one.

If you need support with caring for a senior loved one, then contact Brookstone of Clemmons to find out more about our care options and independent/assisted living communities in Clemmons, NC.