3 Health Problems That Can Strike in Your 20s

By Kate Gardner 

Ah, youth! When you're in your 20s, your body tends to work properly and it's easy to take it for granted. And with good reason! Most major health problems are still years away and, when you do get sick or injured, your body makes quick work of recovery. But even at this stage of life, some health problems can pop up. It's important to know what they are, what to watch for, and how to handle them so they don't become something even bigger down the road. 

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is for your grandparents, right? Unfortunately, doctors are seeing high blood pressure more often in younger patients too, according to WebMD.com. As more young people fall into the obese category, more are also showing elevated blood pressure numbers in the doctor's office. 

What qualifies as high blood pressure is a hotly debated topic, but generally, anything over 140/90 is considered high. A diagnosis of hypertension doesn't automatically mean you have to go on medication, though. Lifestyle changes, like a healthy diet, weight loss, and exercise, are the first line of defense. 

The C Word

Nobody likes to think about getting cancer. Fortunately, when you're in your 20s, your risk of getting cancer is pretty low. Still, there are a few kinds of cancer that are diagnosed in younger people. Cancer.org lists leukemia and lymphoma as cancers that can occur in your late teens and early 20s, while melanoma, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and colorectal cancers are more common in those over 25. 

While cancer is never a welcome diagnosis, huge strides have been made in cancer treatments. In your 20s, the emphasis should be on prevention and early detection. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about the signs and symptoms of cancer and what you can do to limit your risk. 

Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune disease occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your body. This category of disease includes type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and several thyroid issues. According to Dr. Bonnie Feldman at Greatist.com, these diseases can show up at any point in your life but many of them are diagnosed in people who are in their 20s and 30s. 

Symptoms of autoimmune diseases vary widely, making it important for you to know what your normal is and if you've noticed any changes. The focus should be on having a healthcare provider you visit regularly and with whom you have good communication. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in McKinney, Tex.