Women’s Health: Common Health Issues & More

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States? While women are juggling many priorities ranging from kids to careers, it’s important to step back and think about women’s health. Taking care of yourself is not a selfish act as a woman. It’s important to be in-tune with your body and visit a primary care doctor each year. From mental health to heart disease, Hillandale Primary Care is here to help women of all ages with their health.

Importance of Women’s Health in Primary Care

Primary care plays a crucial role in addressing the health needs of women. It offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to health care, focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and the management of chronic conditions.

Furthermore, primary care doctors serve as the first point of contact for patients. At Hillandale Primary Care, we recognize our unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on your health. By understanding the specific needs of female patients, our staff can better guide them on the path to optimal health.

Common Health Issues Faced by Women

The truth is that men and women are not the same when it comes to health issues. Women are more susceptible to depression and arthritis than men. Meanwhile, men are more prone to stroke and diabetes. With this in mind, some common health issues that women face include:

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Early detection is key to successful treatment and a higher chance of survival. Regular breast cancer screening and self-checking are important. This is to help detect any changes in the breasts that may indicate the presence of cancer.

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

• A change in breast size or shape
• Nipple discharge or a nipple that turns inward
• Skin changes, such as dimpling or puckering
• Redness, scaling, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin
• Breast pain or tenderness (although this is less common)
• A lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm

It’s important to keep in mind that not all breast changes are indicative of breast cancer. Some women with breast cancer may not experience any of these symptoms. Therefore, regular breast cancer screenings and self-exams are crucial for early detection and treatment.

As a primary care doctor, Hillandale encourages women to prioritize their breast health and schedule regular screenings and self-exams.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. It is most common in women, especially after menopause, due to the loss of bone density. Lifestyle factors such as lack of exercise and a diet low in calcium and vitamin D can also increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Women who have osteoporosis may have some of the following signs: 

• Back pain or a stooped posture (due to loss of height)
• Fractures, especially in the hip, spine, or wrist
• Loss of bone density (as measured by a bone density test)
• Decreased grip strength or weakened grip in the hands
• Reduced mobility or limitations in physical activity due to pain or fractures
• A family history of osteoporosis or fractures

It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider about osteoporosis screening and prevention strategies if you have any of these signs or risk factors.

 

Heart disease

While often considered a men’s health issue, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes need to be managed to reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease.

Since heart disease is so common in women, you may wonder if you have it. Patients may experience some of the following symptoms of heart disease at any age:

• Chest pain or discomfort (may feel like pressure or squeezing)
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue or weakness, especially during physical activity or exercise
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach

Some women may experience different symptoms or no symptoms at all, which can make it harder to detect heart disease.

 

Mental health

Women are more prone to experience anxiety and depression. Primary care doctors must be vigilant in identifying symptoms and providing appropriate support and referrals.

There are many signs of potential mental health problems in women. You may experience some or many of the following:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Difficulty sleeping (either too much or too little)
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Restlessness or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

These symptoms can be indicative of various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among others. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider or mental health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Mental health conditions are treatable, and early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, please text or dial 988. This is the suicide and crisis hotline. 

Reproductive health

Reproductive health is quite common in women. These issues such as menstrual disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and infertility. Reproductive health problems can significant effect on a woman’s overall health and well-being.

When it comes to reproductive health, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Irregular periods or heavy bleeding
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Unusual vaginal discharge or odor
• Pain or discomfort during urination
• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
• Difficulty getting pregnant or staying pregnant
• Menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, or vaginal dryness

 

Prevention Strategies for Optimal Women’s Health

When it comes to your health, prevention is key to living a long and happy life. Screenings and healthy lifestyle choices can help make a big difference in your overall health. Here are some prevention strategies to consider along with your primary care doctor:

• Regular screenings: Primary care doctors can facilitate early detection of potential health issues by encouraging women to undergo regular screenings. This includes mammograms, Pap tests, and bone density tests.
• Healthy lifestyle choices: Encouraging a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can significantly improve women’s health. Primary care doctors can offer guidance and resources to help women adopt these healthy habits.
• Vaccinations: Ensuring that women are up-to-date with their vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine, can prevent serious health complications later in life.
• Family planning: Providing access to contraception and family planning services can help women make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

How Can Hillandale Help with Women’s Health?

When you need someone to turn to help with women’s health, you can trust Hillandale Primary Care. Primary care doctors are integral to the promotion of women’s health. They can:

• Provide personalized care: By building long-term relationships with their patients, primary care doctors can better understand their female patients’ unique needs and tailor care accordingly.
• Offer continuity of care: Primary care doctors can coordinate care with specialists, ensuring that women receive comprehensive and consistent care for all their health needs.
• Educate and empower: We can help women make informed decisions about their health by providing accurate information and resources.
• Advocate for women’s health: Primary care doctors can use their expertise to advocate for better policies and resources that address the unique health needs of women.

 

Schedule an Appointment with Hillandale Primary Care Now

Promoting and maintaining women’s health is essential for their overall well-being and quality of life. Here at Hillandale, we care about your health and want you to be the best version of yourself. Please schedule an appointment with us now to get started.