Before your next doctor’s appointment: six life-saving tests you can do yourself
Self-care has never been easier – just before you run to the clinic, get to know the physical tests you can do at home, which can save lives and prevent the long wait for the doctor
If in the past people would go to the doctor with the smallest problems, today it seems that there is a trend of change that is gaining momentum. The good news is that quite a few tests can be done independently, at home, without medical intervention, which can shed light and even save lives. Here are six that are important to know:
Check for lumps
Lumpy screening is critical because early diagnosis of cancer saves lives. A diagnosis of stage 1 breast cancer may significantly contribute to your survival, when according to a study conducted in the UK, 98 percent of those diagnosed at this stage will survive for years. However, if cancer is only diagnosed at stage 4, when it has already spread throughout the body, only 26 percent of people will survive for a long time. Therefore, make it a routine to look in the mirror when you undress every day. At least once a month raise your hands, place them on the sides of the body and then on the waist. Pay attention to any wrinkles or folds, lumps, dimples or dry skin. Although most lumps are not cancerous, see your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
Flamingo stand
The length of time you can balance yourself standing on one leg is one way to check how old age is affecting you and may even answer the question of whether you are at risk of stroke or dementia. Scientists from Kyoto University in Japan found that the inability to stand on one leg for 20 seconds or more is associated with a higher risk of having a mini-stroke. The imbalance can be a sign of blood vessel damage that can lead to brain disorders.
Check the weight status
Obesity can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease – and is linked to 13 different types of cancer. The best way to check if you are in good condition is to perform the thread test. Measure your height using a thin rope, then fold it in half, wrap it around your stomach and check if the ends meet. The golden rule is that your waist measurement should be less than half your height.
The toe touch test
Why is flexibility important to our health? First and foremost because it is related to heart health. Sit on the floor with your back to the wall. Bend forward from the waist and keep a straight back as you try to grab your toes. If you are 40 plus years old and you are not close to your fingers at all – you may be at a higher risk of getting cardiovascular diseases. Middle-aged and older people with poor flexibility were also found to have stiff arteries. This may slow the movement of blood around the heart and lead to high blood pressure that will increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. The good news is that exercise can help improve heart health. Try to devote at least twenty minutes a day to brisk walking or swimming.
Follow the departure times
The time it takes for food to pass through your digestive system is a significant sign of the health of your stomach. In fact, the longer it takes for food to pass through your intestine, the greater the risk of colon cancer and kidney disease. For a home test, eat a teaspoon of sweet corn and note how long it takes to come out the other side. Ideally, a healthy gut should process food within 12 to 48 hours. Also, keep your stomach healthy by eating 30 grams of dietary fiber a day, from fruits and vegetables to whole grains like brown rice.
Count the moles
Studies have shown that people with more than 100 moles are at a higher risk of developing melanoma. Instead of trying to count every mole on your body, the researchers came up with a test. People with 11 moles on the right arm were found to be five times more likely to develop melanoma – and those with 7 moles were found to be at double the risk. However, if you count 11 moles or more, don’t panic – but take precautions. In addition, you can use a friend or partner to check the back as well. If you notice these changes – make an appointment with a dermatologist.
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