Blood Tests You Should Undergo After You Turn Fifty

Doctors will ask you to undergo a number of tests on a regular basis after a certain age. Let us focus on the five most important blood tests that you should undergo after you turn fifty.

Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is common in women of all age groups. However, it occurs most commonly in older adults. When you have an under-active thyroid gland, you start to suffer from hypothyroidism.

The symptoms are brittle nails, yellow skin, thinning hair, dry skin, weight gain, muscle aches and cramps, constipation, slow body movements, tiredness, puffiness around the eyes, hoarseness, heavy or irregular menstrual flow, etc.

Once you turn fifty, make sure to undergo this test in order to lead a healthy life. Once diagnosed, patients suffering from hypothyroidism are put on medication and are monitored regularly through blood tests.

Also Read: Blood Tests You Must Do Post 30

Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C is a virus that causes liver disease. The person carrying the disease is sometimes not even aware that he is suffering from hepatitis C. This is because there are no symptoms of hepatitis C.

However, if suffering from a long time, this disease can lead to liver failure, liver cirrhosis or even liver cancer. Hence, it is essential to undergo blood tests in order to diagnose hepatitis C. It can be treated with vaccinations and medications.

Lipid profile test: Lipid profile test or lipid panel is conducted to check a person's cholesterol and triglyceride levels. For people who are detected with high cholesterol levels and who also suffer from high blood sugar, these tests need to be conducted at regular intervals.

Depending on the level of cholesterol, doctors provide medication and diet charts. Regular exercise and leading a healthy lifestyle is a must.

Also Read: When Should You Have A Blood Test For Diabetes?

Blood sugar test: Diabetes has become a lifestyle disease nowadays. Unhealthy lifestyle, genetic factors, stress and environmental factors are responsible for this disease.

Regular tests should be done to check the blood sugar level and medication should be taken accordingly. Dietary and lifestyle changes are a must. If left undetected and untreated, diabetes can cause damage to your eyes, teeth, nerves, kidney and heart.

Blood tests to check for sexually transmitted infections: As a safety measure, men and women above fifty years of age should undergo routine tests to check for sexually transmitted infections. This test should not be avoided and if detected with any such infection, appropriate medication should be taken to cure it.