From Barry Zevan: Senior Health and Fitness

​photo credit: chuttersnap accessed 7/30/19 via CC0

Barry ZeVan (aka "The Weatherman") offers some insightful ideas about the importance of staying fit and some possible signs of hidden health problems:  

During my youth, one of the perpetual sayings in our household was, "Your health is the most important thing you have." Of course, hearing that from our elders, was verbiage to which some of us didn't pay much attention. Now, in our senior years, we know what they were saying was one hundred percent true.

By the time we reach a certain age, most of us have probably reached stages when we know what to recognize as signals that something happening to us physically isn't quite right, and it's time to visit a doctor or hospital. Above almost every element for good health, especially for us seniors, DAILY EXERCISE is the major key for keeping fit. 

Recently, however, I saw the following and wanted to share parts of it with you regarding what might help you think a bit more about some out of the ordinary physical occurrences and signals precipitating the need to check further, to wit: 

“When you see changes in the body, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a certain medical condition,” says Robin Evans, MD, a clinical instructor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, about recognizing subtle or unusual symptoms. “However, a bell should go off in your head to get screened or talk to your doctor.” Our body gives us many signs about a certain health condition. So, if you see something unusual occurring, please visit your doctor, because research shows  early screening could prevent many diseases and even premature death. Here are some:  

1. Diagonal earlobe crease - Research has associated an earlobe fold with a higher risk of coronary disease, as it may be a sign of blockage in the arteries. 
2. Bumps on eyelids - Yellowish bumps on your eyelids happen when certain fats build up under the skin. They could indicate that you have elevated cholesterol levels. 
3. Smooth tongue - A smooth, swollen tongue may signal a lack of B12 or iron. This condition could also be a result of low estrogen, such as during menopause, or use of dentures. See your doctor if it lasts longer than 10 days or makes breathing, speaking, or eating difficult.  
4. Belly button discharge - Yellow, green, or dark-colored discharge in your belly button is likely the result of a fungal, yeast, or bacterial infection.  
5. Orange hands - Beta-carotene is found in yellow-orange vegetables such as carrots, peaches, and oranges. Excessive consumption can actually turn your skin orange! If this is also accompanied by pain or nausea, you should be prepared for something possibly more serious.  
6. Spooned nails - A dip in the nail that could hold a drop of water – a condition called koilonychia – could be a sign of iron-deficiency-anemia. Spoon nails can also be associated with heart disease and hypothyroidism.  
7. Bronzed skin - Darkening skin without sun exposure, is a symptom of Addison’s disease, in which the adrenal glands stop functioning. It can also be caused by medications or excess accumulation of iron.  
8. Lace-like discoloration on legs - A lace-like pattern on your skin when you are cold could be due to abnormal circulation near the skin surface or blood vessel spasms. It may be a sign of an underlying condition like heart disease or a side effect of medication. 
9. Sweaty feet - Excessive sweating of the feet, experts say, is harmless. Sweaty feet could also signal an underlying condition such as hyperthyroidism.  

These are just some of the things you may feel signal a hidden health problem, thanks to Dr. Evans's research-proven suggestions. Please contact your Fairview care provider if you feel any of the preceding should be addressed. Thanks for reading, as always.  

Martin Luther Campus, an Ebenezer Senior Community, values the health of our residents. We offer aquatic therapy, exercises classes as part of our Adult Day Program, and nutritious meals for our residents. Schedule a tour to see why our focus on healthy living for older adults makes a difference in the lives of those we serve. 

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Martin Luther Campus is part of the Ebenezer family of Lutheran Senior Care Communities. We provide transitional care and assisted living apartments for seniors in Bloomington and Richfield. We also have adult day clubs and memory care programs for seniors living at home. We’re located at 1401 East 100th St. Bloomington, MN. Are you interested in transitioning to assisted living or do you have a loved one that needs assisted living? Call Amy at 952-948-5167 for more information and to schedule a tour today.