Asthma
Asthma affects approximately 5% of adults and 20% of children in Singapore. It is a chronic respiratory disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult. Attacks range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening.
Common asthma triggers
- Dust mites, animal fur, stuff toys
- Tobacco smoke, pollen, air pollution
- Cold air, physical exertion
- Certain foods or medications
- Emotional stress
Consult a doctor for effective long-term asthma management.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
High blood pressure (HBP) occurs when the force of blood through the arteries is consistently too high. If untreated, it can lead to stroke, cardiac arrest, kidney and arterial disease.
Controllable risk factors
- Unhealthy diet (high sodium, fatty foods)
- Lack of physical activity
- Obesity
- Smoking and excessive alcohol
What you can do
Eat healthy, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy BMI, quit smoking, and monitor your blood pressure at home. Take prescribed medications consistently and keep regular doctor appointments.
9 Common Conditions Affecting the Elderly
- Osteoporosis – weakens bones, raising fracture risk in the spine, hip or wrist.
- Diabetes / Thyroid / High Cholesterol – hormonal diseases managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
- Alzheimer’s Disease – affects memory, thinking and behaviour; not a normal part of ageing.
- Parkinson’s Disease – affects the nervous system and movement; medication can improve but not cure it.
- Cataracts – clouding of the eye causing blurry vision; may lead to blindness if untreated.
- Heart Disease – a leading cause of death among the elderly.
- Arthritis – joint inflammation causing pain and stiffness.
- Hearing Loss – many patients benefit from hearing aids.
- Depression – poor health and isolation can contribute to depression in older adults.
Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when the body struggles to convert glucose to energy due to a deficiency in insulin function. Type 1 mostly affects children and young adults; Type 2 is more common and affects adults. Symptoms include blurred vision, frequent urination, rapid weight loss, fatigue and slow-healing wounds.
Diagnosis is via a blood glucose test. Prevention includes a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits, regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Unmanaged diabetes can lead to amputations, blindness and heart disease.
Gout
Gout is caused by excess uric acid forming needle-like crystals in joints, causing severe pain. Risk factors include genetics, certain medications, obesity, red meat, shellfish and excess alcohol.
Treatment
Doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs for acute attacks and medications to reduce uric acid. Prevention includes vitamins, healthy eating, regular exercise and drinking plenty of water.
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance the body needs, but excess amounts clog artery walls, raising risk of serious illness. There are no fixed symptoms, so regular check-ups are important.
Risk factors
- Smoking, fatty diet, lack of exercise
- Family history, age, weight
How to improve cholesterol levels
- Doctor-prescribed medications
- TLC diet (low cholesterol, low saturated fat)
- Regular physical activity and weight management
- Cooking tips: use olive oil, boil or grill instead of frying, serve smaller portions
Foods to limit
- Butter, cheese, whole milk, ice cream
- Fatty and processed meats, oily fried foods
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland, located below the neck, secretes hormones that help the body use energy and keep organs functioning properly. Hypothyroidism occurs when the gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
Symptoms
Feeling cold, fatigue, depression and constipation. Diagnosis requires a simple blood test (TSH test).
Causes
Weak immune system, surgical removal of the gland, radiation, genetics, or too much or too little iodine. If left untreated, it can cause obesity, joint pain, skin swelling and organ damage.
Contact Faith Medical Group or drop by any of our clinics for more information.