(ThyBlackMan.com) Though illness and health problems don’t discriminate, there are certain issues that are prevalent within the urban or minority communities. There are many reasons why this happens, but more often than not it boils down to limited resources, lifestyle choices, and lack of knowledge. When diagnosed with these diseases and illnesses, many times the patients are unaware of what to do (outside of taking prescribed medication).
Preventative measures and maintenance for those diagnosed could be the solution to remedying a lot of health risks within the urban community. Below are three of the most common diseases in the urban community and what you can do if diagnosed to prevent it from taking over your life:
- Diabetes
Diabetes is a common disease within minority communities. This is a
metabolic disorder that affects the way the body processes sugar found in foods. The disease can cause blood pressure to rise or drop well beyond average levels, causing an array of problems. This can include issues with the kidneys, heart, nerves, skin, mouth, and could potentially cause death if not managed properly.
Controlling: There is no medication that will completely cure diabetes, but it is manageable. Some things your doctor might tell you would be to maintain a healthy weight, exercise, eat a specialized diet for diabetics (one that minimizes sugar intake), and limit your alcohol consumption. If you have issues with blood circulation, a doctor might also advise you to purchase the best compression socks to help improve your circulation.
- High Blood Pressure
Another common disease within the urban communities is high blood pressure. Often referred to as hypertension, this occurs when the pressure or force of blood that is pumping through your arteries is too high. This can quickly lead to heart disease as well as a stroke.
Controlling: To keep your blood pressure within safe limits, you’ll have to make similar life changes to those described above. This will mean losing weight, exercising, limiting the use of cigarettes and alcohol, and reducing the amount of sodium in your diet. Depending on how high your blood pressure is and your family history, you may also be required to take medication to keep it under control along with having your pressure checked regularly by a medical professional.
- Heart Disease
Having diabetes and/or high blood pressure can quickly lead to heart disease. There are several types of heart disease as well as several factors that cause it. However, some of the most common include a stroke, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and peripheral artery disease. Each of these conditions has something to do with the arteries, blood vessels and blood flow. If not carefully monitored and controlled, they can lead to death.
Controlling: Essentially, controlling or treating your heart disease will greatly depend upon the type of disease you have. For instance, someone who is dealing with clogged arteries, which limit the amount of blood passing through the body, might have to cut back on greasy foods. Others may be required to undergo surgery and be mindful of their eating habits in the future.
You only get one body. Therefore, you want to make sure that you’re doing what is right to maintain it. If diagnosed with any of the above diseases, education and lifestyle changes are ultimately the solution to solving the issue. Work with your doctor and/or medical specialist to come up with a plan that will help to improve the quality of your life despite your health conditions.
Staff Writer; Charles Moore