Hey there, Bethel residents! Interestingly, despite the beauty of every environment, each environment has its complications. Today, we discuss the five most likely diseases you will experience in your community. Knowledge of these makes us confident and able to care for ourselves and our loved ones. Alright, where were we? Yes, let’s come to the point.
5 Most Common Diseases in Bethel
The following are the five most common diseases you will likely see in Bethel.
1. Respiratory Infections
What are they?
Respiratory infections primarily affect our respiratory system, comprising the lungs and other respiratory structures. They include common colds, bronchitis, and, in severe cases, pneumonia can be experienced.
Why are they common here?
Due to our cold climate, which provides comfort to different infections and cramped living, these infections spread quickly. Moreover, the cold and dry environment negatively affects people’s respiratory systems.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Coughing and sneezing
- Congestion or a runny nose
- Sore throat
- Fever and chills
Prevention tips
- Frequently wash your hands.
- Cover your mouth and your nose when you are coughing or sneezing.
- If the vaccine is available, get vaccinated.
- Don’t go to public places if you are facing a respiratory infection.
2. Diabetes
What is it?
It is mainly characterized by either a lack of insulin or an inability to use insulin, which results in a rise in blood sugar levels.
Why is it common here?
Genetic factors, dietary habits, and a sedentary lifestyle are important triggers for this disease. The use of processed foods and low physical activity also contribute to it.
Responsible for around 1.5 million deaths per year globally, diabetes is a significant health concern, particularly in developed countries where lifestyle-related factors contribute to its prevalence.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Polydipsia or excessive desire to drink water,
- Polyuria or frequent urination
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores
Prevention tips
- Check your diet, including better options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Increase your daily physical activity.
- Maintain your weight.
- Get regular checkups and blood sugar tests.
3. Heart Disease
What is it?
Heart diseases include conditions such as coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction (heart failure).
Why is it common here?
The modifiable risk factors are hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking, and diabetes, which are common in this community.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Shortness of breath
- Neck, face, throat, and left arm pain.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
Prevention tips
- Eat a balanced diet that is healthy for your heart and rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Exercise regularly
- Do not take tobacco and moderate the use of alcohol.
- Reduce stress with activities such as exercise, reading, or any other hobby to help reduce stress.
4. Obesity
What is it?
An excess amount of body fat is known as obesity. Obesity is not just about weight but about the health risks that are associated with it, like diabetes and heart disease.
Why is it common here?
Most of the people in Bethel do not actively engage in physical activities, and they have limited access to fresh air, making obesity rates in the area considerably high.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Excess body weight
- Problems with physical activity
- Health issues, more specifically, hypertension(high blood pressure) or joint problems
Prevention tips
- Take balanced meals of the proper proportions
- Exercise should be practiced as much as possible in everyone’s daily schedule.
- Avoid taking sugary foods and beverages
- Talk it over with someone you know or consult a physician.
5. Alcohol-Related Health Issues
What are they?
The most common alcohol-related diseases are liver diseases, pancreatitis, and different mental disorders.
Why is it common here?
Stress, anxiety, isolation, and many other social problems are prevalent here, so people use them as a coping mechanism to deal with them.
Symptoms to watch for
- A person intended to have several glasses of beer but ended up consuming over that intended quantity.
- Health problems like liver and digestive issues.
- Symptoms of withdrawal after not consuming alcohol
Prevention tips
- Limit alcohol intake
- Give time to your family and friends and engage in your favorite hobbies to manage your stress and anxiety.
- If you are having trouble with alcoholism, don’t hesitate to ask a healthcare professional for help.
Conclusion
Knowing such diseases and their signs is the first step toward a healthy life. So, people making a few simple modifications to their lifestyle, such as having a better diet, engaging in physical activities regularly, and having regular doctor checkups, can significantly improve their health.
You should also know that it is always okay to seek assistance. Yes, solutions are available from your healthcare provider, from other patients through support groups, and from friends so that you can be healthy and happy. Together, we can ensure that Bethel remains healthy and continues to develop as a community.
Stay well, Bethel!
