Everyone wants to be healthy, but as you get into adulthood it becomes harder to know how to achieve this – you don’t have routine check-ups in the same was as when you were a child, as there’s no-one checking you’ve ticked off the basic health checks anymore. There are plenty of things you do every day that really contribute towards good health, such as hand washing and vaccines, which we all know are good for us in order to stave off illnesses. However, what about the basics of good health care? Paying attention to the signs and symptoms of health problems is the best way to ensure you stay healthy, whether that’s unexplained weight loss to changes in your bowel habits. The more information you can provide your GP with in such situations, the more easily they will be able to diagnose you. Naturally, topping this watchful eye up with regular check-ups and health screenings will make sure that any concerns are spotted early on to make treatment more successful.
Regular dental check-ups are important to keep your oral health in check. Basic dental care is often overlooked, so next time you think you’re too tired to brush your teeth or floss, remember that your smile depends on those extra five minutes of effort. Keep an eye on any decay or if your teeth begin to ache, and get an appointment booked with your dentist as soon as possible to have any cavities or plaque problems dealt with quickly before they damage your teeth and gums. You should also make a note of common dental care tips, such as whether an electric toothbrush is better for your teeth over a normal toothbrush, or whether whitening toothpaste really works. Getting a regular check-up with your dentist every six months will help you stay on top of your dental care. Likewise, your skin requires a watchful eye and regular care. This means more than simply taking your make-up off before you go to bed though. The sun can cause a lot of damage, so you need to avoid sitting out in the sun for hours on end, and wear sun cream regularly. A healthy diet goes a long way towards ensuring your skin stays healthy, but you need to understand the risks of tattoos and piercings too. Find out the best ways to treat infections, skin rashes and acne – whatever your skin needs, ensure that you source it.
Are your nails healthy? And would you spot the difference if they weren’t? Many people don’t think to look at their nails, but they can be a great indicator of your health. If they’re ridged or weak, it could be a sign that you’re lacking nutrients in your diet. Proper nail care is vital, whether they’re healthy or not, so make sure that you trim and moisturise your nails regularly to keep them strong. And this is especially the case if you rely on manicures to keep your nails looking good – if they’re brittle and splitting, you should avoid the harsh chemicals and treatments they use until you regain stronger nails. Being aware of your body and what’s right for you is the first step towards being healthy – it helps you spot the signs of potential problems early so that you can find out what is wrong and get treatment. If you are invited to health screenings for your age, you should take part as they often spot the signs that you’ve missed.