Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a condition where open sores form in the wall of the upper gut, namely the esophagus, stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine). It is a common condition that develops for many of the same reasons as gastritis. Peptic ulcers may follow a long or severe bout of gastritis that is not quickly treated and effectively managed. It is one of the common gut problems that affect the elderly especially those using certain chronic medication like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Apart from causing severe discomfort, peptic ulcers can lead to very serious complications when left untreated.
Diabetic Diet and Lifestyle Changes for the Diabetic Senior
Diabetes mellitus, or sugar diabetes, is a problem with blood glucose control which is mainly regulated by the hormone known as insulin. Due to the shortage or lack of insulin, the blood glucose (sugar) levels are elevated which can then damage cells in the body. The key to treating and managing diabetes mellitus over the long term involves a combination [Read more..]
Causes of Heart Attacks and Age Risks for the Elderly
Heart attacks which are medically known as a myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the leading causes of death in the elderly, particularly in developed nations. It is to a large extent preventable with a combination of lifestyle changes, medication and surgical procedures that can reduce the risk of a heart attack. However, there is still significant ignorance about how [Read more..]
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in the Elderly
What is DVT?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is one of the common leg vein problems in the elderly which has potentially serious complications if left untreated. It is simply the formation of a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg - mainly the lower leg but can occur in the thigh. On its own this clot can significantly impair [Read more..]
Itchy Skin without Rash Causes and Senile Pruritus in the Elderly
Itchiness of the skin may at times occur without a rash. It can happen to any person of any age but when it occurs in the elderly and tends to be persistent, it is then known as senile pruritus. Itching can be intense enough to cause significant discomfort to a person, affect sleep and impact on the psychological state of [Read more..]
Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) in the Elderly
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a condition where open sores form in the wall of the upper gut, namely the esophagus, stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine). It is a common condition that develops for many of the same reasons as gastritis. Peptic ulcers may follow a long or severe bout of gastritis that is not quickly [Read more..]
How to Improve Leg Blood Flow Circulation
Poor circulation in the legs is a common problem in many people especially the obese and the elderly. It is partly due to a sedentary lifestyle particularly with the modern lifestyle and in seniors there is the added factor of age-related changes in the blood vessels. The arteries tend to lose their elasticity and become hard and narrow while the veins weaken and dilate leading to stagnation of blood. Both problems compromise the blood flow in the legs to varying degrees and cause different conditions and symptoms.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in the Elderly
Seniors are not often thought of as being at risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, STDs do not discriminate by age and seniors are at times at even greater risk due to certain practices that increases the chances of an infection. Often these infections remain undiagnosed for long periods of time as the elderly are either embarrassed to seek medical attention or are unaware of the serious nature of some of the symptoms. It is important for the elderly to remember that if they are sexually active, they are also at risk of STDs irrespective of their age or that of their partner.
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Gastritis (Stomach Irritation) in the Elderly
The stomach undergoes significant strain on a daily basis. Apart from the constant onslaught of corrosive stomach acid, it also has to churn and break down all types of food that is eaten with strong muscle contractions and a mixture of digestive enzymes. Although just a hollow sac, the thick walls of the stomach has developed various mechanisms to withstand the ongoing strain. On any given day a person never feels the different sensations of the various processes that are going on in the stomach.
Sometimes the stomach wall becomes injured or irritated and this condition is known as gastritis. It is more likely to happen in certain people particularly the elderly who use excessive amounts of chronic medication. Gastritis can be a painful stomach condition and affect a person’s lifestyle and eating habits to a significant degree. Without treatment and in severe cases, gastritis can quickly progress to stomach ulcers and even bleeding in the upper gut.
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