By Sue Sveum
It may sound cliché to say you’re as young as you feel — but there’s definitely some truth to the idea. The good news? You’re in control. We asked a group of SSM Health providers to weigh in on things you can do to look and feel young — even as you age.
CHECKUPS AND SCREENINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
It may be tempting to put off annual physicals and screenings — especially when you’re feeling fine. But don’t.
“Many conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes go undiagnosed until they’re symptomatic and severe,” explains Dawn Kalin, DO, a specialist in OB/ GYN. “Your annual wellness visit is a great time to screen for risk before health issues become a problem.”
It’s also a good opportunity to discuss topics like family planning, depression/anxiety, exercise, diet and more.
“And please tell us if you struggle to make ends meet — or feel unsafe at home or trapped in your relationship,” says Dr. Kalin. “We can help.”
Consider a health issue or question to be “embarrassing?” Don’t worry — chances are, your doctor has probably heard it before.
“We want to know everything!” says Dr. Kalin. “Patients often preface a question with, ‘This is probably dumb but…’ The truth is, there are no ‘dumb’ questions when it comes to your health.”
She stresses the importance of feeling comfortable and asking about your concerns so your provider can either help you — or ease your mind that things are normal.
Regarding routine screenings, here are the latest guidelines:
- Bone density — the Dexa scan is done at age 65 (or earlier based on history)
- Pelvic exam — with symptoms or medical history that requires it
- Pap smear and HPV test — every 3-5 years depending on age and history
- Colon cancer screening — beginning at age 45
- Mammogram — yearly starting at age 40
WHAT ABOUT PERIMENOPAUSE AND MENOPAUSE?
Not surprisingly, questions regarding perimenopause and menopause are among the most commonly asked by female patients at doctor’s appointments.
“Typically, women around age 45 (sometimes younger) will start to experience symptoms of perimenopause, which can last
10 years or more,” explains nurse practitioner Sarah Block, APNP-CP. “Common initial signs include changes with your period arriving either closer together or farther apart, typically with an increased volume of bleeding.”
Perimenopause continues from the start of symptoms through the beginning of menopause — which is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period. There’s no difference in symptoms between the two — both stages are due to decreasing levels of estrogen and progesterone — though progesterone starts to decrease during perimenopause, then estrogen dips during menopause. Symptoms during this time may include vaginal dryness, hair loss, joint pain, mood changes, brain fog and others.
“Some symptoms such as vaginal dryness and thinning hair will persist throughout your lifetime,” Block says. “Others, including hot flashes and night sweats, eventually dissipate.”
See your provider or OB/GYN to discuss the best treatments for you.
PELVIC HEALTH ISSUES ARE VERY COMMON
Another concern that women often have difficulty discussing with their provider is pelvic health. But pelvic floor issues are actually extremely common, affecting as many as one in three women of all ages, according to SSM Health physical therapist Katherine Hovanec, who specializes in pelvic floor physical therapy.
“The strength of pelvic tissue reduces with age or can be damaged with chronic coughing or an occupation requiring heavy lifting,” explains Bruce Drummond, MD, an SSM Health urogynecologist. “Bladder and bowel control issues, pelvic pain and sexual problems tend to occur together. That’s why it’s necessary for specialists to work together to manage pelvic floor conditions.”
Unfortunately, Hovanec says, most women don’t realize pelvic floor physical therapy is an option until their provider recommends it. Or if they do, they aren’t exactly sure what it is — or what to expect.
The most common pelvic floor concerns she sees involve urinary incontinence, urgency and frequency — conditions that often cause patients to limit activities they enjoy. But pelvic floor physical therapists are specially trained in working with these problems — so patients can comfortably and confidently participate again.
“We recognize these can be challenging or embarrassing topics for women to talk about,” says Hovanec, explaining that all appointments are one-on-one, in a private room, with patients deciding what to share, and to what extent of external and internal examination they’re comfortable with. “I always reassure patients these issues are extremely common — they’re not alone.”
Physical therapy treatments may include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, biofeedback training and coordination/awareness training. Lifestyle and behavioral modifications can also be helpful.
“The goal of treatment is to improve quality of life without worrying about your pelvic health,” says Dr. Drummond. He suggests scheduling bathroom visits for improving bladder and bowel control. “[And] I know it’s hard to hear — but eliminating bladder irritants like caffeine, soda and artificial sweeteners also improves control.”
“We treat a lot of conditions that people dismiss as “normal” when they really aren’t,” adds Hovanec. “Pelvic floor PT can help patients improve symptoms – and give them the tools to manage their conditions long-term. For some, that can be life-changing.”
DON’T FORGET THE SKINCARE!
When it comes to skincare, prevention is always easier than correction — which is why Amber Reynolds, PA, with SSM Health Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery, will be the first to tell you, “Skincare should start ASAP.”
It’s important at any age to be proactive and care for your skin by cleansing, moisturizing and wearing SPF. “Skincare should be relatively easy so that you can stay consistent and see results,” stresses Reynolds.
Routines will vary based on each individual’s concern. Women in their 50s to 60s should consider anti-aging products with retinol, antioxidants and peptides to address signs of aging — while it’s probably not necessary for someone in their 20s. In your 30’s and 40’s, you can consider Botox and fillers to soften or prevent wrinkles before they become permanent or deep. Broadband light therapy (also known as BBL) and HALO can help with sunspots and other visible signs of aging.
Above all, don’t forget the sunscreen! “Our number- one concern is preventing skin cancer and the best way to do that is by using SPF 30 or higher, [and wearing] UPF clothing,” says Reynolds. “An added bonus is preventing signs of aging, which includes fine lines and hyperpigmentation or broken vessels.”
BREAST HEALTH TO-DOS
Although October is officially dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness, breast exams and mammograms can — and should — take place anytime.
“Following [the] American Society of Breast Surgeons guidelines, I tell patients they should get an annual mammogram starting at the age of 40 if they’re at average risk,” says Dana Henkel, MD, SSM Health breast surgeon. “Patients with a personal or family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need earlier screening or additional imaging such as MRIs or ultrasound.”
Henkel urges patients to have “breast awareness” — to know what their breasts feel like and note any change. “I’d also encourage patients to ask for a breast exam during their annual physical,” she says.
And be sure to schedule that yearly mammogram. Any month will do.
PUT SELF-CARE FIRST
“Self-care isn’t frozen in time,” stresses Loryjean Kostich, CNM, an SSM certified- nurse midwife. “Your needs and routines change as you change, as your life does.”
Obvious components to feeling good and healthy are a safe environment, nutritious diet, sleep, hydration, and exercise — but equally important is your emotional and mental health, including recreation and socialization.
Her advice? “Set goals and look for the positive in every situation, even negative ones,” she says. “Build and nurture connections with others. And remember — there’s always something to be grateful for.”
Well-balanced self-care involves each of these. Stay well.
