Women, here are some of the best ways to stay healthier

As you take care of everyone else’s needs, don’t forget your own.

Women often find that the people and responsibilities in their lives take priority over focusing on themselves. When caring for children, aging parents or a partner (or all of the above), it’s easy to get caught up in all there is to do for others. Commitments related to work, school, family, friends and community involvement also vie for your time. But no matter how busy you may find yourself, it’s also important to take care of yourself. After all, if you’re not feeling well physically or mentally, you’re not much good to anyone else anyway.

We checked in with some of our Women’s Health experts at Dignity Health Bakersfield for some tips on staying healthy, even when your own well being is at the bottom of your “to-do” list:

• See a doctor regularly. Dr. Nadeem Goraya, MD, Family Medicine Physician with Dignity Health Medical Group—Bakersfield, says an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. “It’s so important to get an annual physical. During these exams, your blood pressure, heart rate and body mass index are checked.  We also check blood work screening for diabetes, kidney and liver dysfunction, anemia and elevated cholesterol,” says Dr. Goraya. “You’ll also have an opportunity to talk about any health-related issues that may concern you. Even if you feel healthy, don’t skip these appointments. They serve as a baseline so you can monitor whether things change as you age.”
• Don’t forget screenings. Dr. Goraya adds that when you have that routine doctor’s appointment, discuss any screenings you may need, such as a mammogram, Pap test, colonoscopy or skin cancer check. The types of screenings you need, and how often you need them, will depend on your age and other risk factors.
• Pay attention to subtle signs. We get it, you’re busy and maybe you can’t stop for every little ache or symptom. “Some very serious health conditions may only present themselves with subtle signs, so pay attention if they appear,” says Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Htoo Kyaw.  “For example, if you notice more fatigue than usual, can’t tolerate physical activity as much as you used to, are short of breath or have pain in your arm, jaw, back or chest, it may be a sign of heart disease. Don’t ignore these signs—mention them to a doctor.”

Dr. Kyaw adds that women's heart attack symptoms can be different from men's. “Some women experience chest pain, but others may have different symptoms, such as shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and back or jaw pain. It's important to be aware of these symptoms and to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of them."

• Take care of your mental health. You take care of everyone else, but don’t forget numero uno—you. If you are feeling sad, anxious, stressed or hopeless, talk to someone you trust. Finding ways to relax, de-stress and have fun may also help. If your usual bag of tricks doesn’t change your mood or your attitude, it may be time to seek treatment from a licensed mental health professional.

“People with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are more likely to develop heart disease. This is because mental health conditions can lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and overeating. They can also make it difficult to manage stress, which is a major risk factor for heart disease,” said Dr. Kyaw. 

It's important to take care of your mental health as well as your physical health. If you have a mental health condition, talk to your doctor about how to manage it. There are many effective treatments available that can help you improve your mental health and reduce your risk of heart disease.

• Give yourself grace. You’re a cheerleader and an avid supporter for the people you love, but you should play the same role when it comes to you. Dr. Goraya stresses the importance of giving yourself permission to make mistakes or to be less than perfect. “Believe in second chances. Don’t feel guilty about taking time for yourself and doing the things you need to do to be happy and healthy.”

To learn more about Women’s Services at Mercy and Memorial Hospitals, click here.