Top 50 Ailments Affecting People Over 50

What to Know, What to Watch For, and Who to See

By Jenny Hale Woldt

As a 58-year-old woman, I can honestly say I spend a fair amount of time wondering about the various new aches, pains, and odd symptoms that seem to pop up with each passing year. Like so many of you, I find myself searching online for answers—sometimes just to figure out if what I’m feeling is normal, and other times because I honestly have no idea what kind of doctor I should even call. Over the years, I’ve realized I’m not alone in this. So, I decided to pull together some of my findings, not just for myself, but for anyone else navigating this new chapter of life after 50.

In my work at Splash Box Marketing, I’ve spent the past two decades collaborating with many Medicare Advantage plans and organizations dedicated to serving seniors. This has given me a front-row seat to the health concerns that come with aging, and it’s kept senior issues at the forefront of my mind—both professionally and personally.

What follows is a list of the top 50 ailments that affect people over 50. For each condition, I’ve included a plain-English explanation, common symptoms, root causes, lifestyle changes that might help, and even the type of doctor you should consider seeing. My hope is that this resource makes your own search for answers a little easier and helps you feel less alone as you traverse this sometimes confusing—but still wonderful—stage of life.

I also want to share something very personal—something that changed me forever. I recently spent a year watching my mother die of three forms of cancer. It was the single most painful time of my life, and I have never felt more helpless to assist someone I love. Every moment with her, I was on the verge of tears as she took pill after pill, fighting a battle her body could no longer win. The hardest part was knowing that, for years, she didn’t tell anyone about her issues or symptoms. The end may still have come, but perhaps her cancer wouldn’t have metastasized so widely—breast cancer that became brain cancer, then bone cancer—if she’d reached out sooner. I know so many of us don’t want to be “complainers,” but please, seek help when something feels wrong. By not speaking up, you could end up facing a far more serious situation. We will all go one day to be with our Creator, but we do have choices that might make our exit a little easier. If I could do it all over again, when I first found out my mom had a lump on her breast, I would have risked making her mad at me—or even stopped talking to me—to force her to seek help. Don’t wait. Don’t be silent. You matter, and so do the people who love you.

No matter your age, remember to stay positive and always look for the silver lining. Don’t let aches and pains steal your joy—turn them over to God and keep your heart open to hope and gratitude. It’s not always easy, but with God, all things are possible. Keep moving forward, keep smiling, and know you’re never alone on this journey.

— Jenny Hale Woldt

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

About:

High blood pressure is one of the most common conditions in older adults, affecting more than 100 million Americans. It’s called the “silent killer” because you often won’t feel any symptoms, yet it can quietly damage your heart, arteries, kidneys, and brain over the years. Many people only discover they have hypertension during a routine check-up. The risk increases with age, but with the right lifestyle and medication, you can manage it effectively and reduce your risk of serious complications.

•   Symptoms: Usually none; sometimes headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds.

•   Root Causes: Genetics, obesity, high salt intake, inactivity, chronic stress.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Reduce salt, exercise regularly, manage stress, maintain a healthy weight.

•   Physician: Primary Care Physician, Cardiologist.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

About:

Type 2 diabetes develops when your body can’t properly use insulin, causing blood sugar levels to rise. Nearly 38 million Americans are living with diabetes, and the risk climbs with age. It can sneak up slowly, often going undiagnosed for years, while quietly harming nerves, blood vessels, and organs. The condition is serious but manageable—many people control it with a combination of diet, exercise, and medication.

•   Symptoms: Frequent urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, blurred vision.

•   Root Causes: Obesity, inactivity, genetics, poor diet.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Lose weight, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly.

•   Physician: Endocrinologist, Primary Care Physician.

3. Osteoarthritis

About:

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis among older adults. It’s a “wear and tear” condition where joint cartilage breaks down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling—especially in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Over 32 million Americans live with osteoarthritis. While it can make daily movement harder, the right approach can help you stay active and comfortable.

•   Symptoms: Joint pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion.

•   Root Causes: Aging, joint injuries, obesity, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Maintain a healthy weight, engage in low-impact exercise, protect your joints.

•   Physician: Rheumatologist, Orthopedist.

4. Coronary Artery Disease

About:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) happens when the arteries that supply blood to your heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque. This condition is the leading cause of death in the U.S. and becomes more common as we age. You might not notice symptoms until the condition is advanced, but over time, CAD can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, or even a heart attack. Thankfully, heart-healthy habits and medical advances have made CAD much more manageable.

•   Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue.

•   Root Causes: High cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Eat a heart-healthy diet, exercise, quit smoking.

•   Physician: Cardiologist.

5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

About:

COPD is a group of lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that make it harder to breathe. It’s most often caused by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke and affects about 16 million Americans. Symptoms usually start gradually but can become quite limiting over time. While there’s no cure, quitting smoking and following a treatment plan can help you stay active and improve your quality of life.

•   Symptoms: Chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing.

•   Root Causes: Smoking, air pollution, occupational exposures.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Quit smoking, participate in pulmonary rehab, avoid lung irritants.

•   Physician: Pulmonologist.

6. Chronic Kidney Disease

About:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function that affects more than 37 million Americans, especially those with diabetes or high blood pressure. CKD often develops silently, and by the time symptoms appear, significant damage may have already occurred. Early diagnosis and management are key to slowing progression and avoiding complications like kidney failure.

•   Symptoms: Fatigue, swelling in legs or ankles, changes in urination.

•   Root Causes: Diabetes, hypertension, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Control blood pressure and blood sugar, reduce salt, avoid NSAIDs.

•   Physician: Nephrologist.

7. Alzheimer’s Disease

About:

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually affecting the ability to carry out simple tasks. Nearly 7 million Americans aged 65 and older are affected. Early symptoms are often subtle, like forgetting recent conversations or appointments, but the disease can eventually impact independence. While there’s no cure, early intervention and supportive care can help maximize quality of life.

•   Symptoms: Memory loss, confusion, mood changes.

•   Root Causes: Age, genetics, family history.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Engage in brain-stimulating activities, stay physically active, eat a heart-healthy diet.

•   Physician: Neurologist, Geriatrician.

8. Osteoporosis

About:

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, making them more prone to fractures. It’s especially common in postmenopausal women but can affect men as well. About 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and many more have low bone density. The condition is often called the “silent disease” because it typically isn’t discovered until a minor fall results in a broken bone.

•   Symptoms: Fractures, back pain, loss of height.

•   Root Causes: Aging, menopause, low calcium/vitamin D, inactivity.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Weight-bearing exercise, increase calcium and vitamin D intake, avoid smoking.

•   Physician: Endocrinologist, Rheumatologist.

9. Depression

About:

Depression is more than just feeling sad—it’s a persistent mood disorder that can affect how you think, feel, and function daily. It’s common among older adults, often triggered by health problems, loss, or social isolation. Sometimes, depression appears without a clear reason. The important thing to know is that it’s treatable, and getting help can make a big difference.

•   Symptoms: Persistent sadness, fatigue, sleep issues, loss of interest.

•   Root Causes: Genetics, chronic illness, isolation, major life changes.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Stay socially engaged, exercise, seek therapy.

•   Physician: Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Primary Care Physician.

10. Hearing Loss

About:

Hearing loss is a common part of aging, affecting about one in three people over 65. It usually happens gradually, so you might not notice it right away, but it can make social interactions more challenging and even contribute to feelings of isolation. The causes range from age-related changes in the inner ear to long-term exposure to loud noises.

•   Symptoms: Difficulty hearing conversations, ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

•   Root Causes: Aging, noise exposure, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Use hearing aids, protect ears from loud noise.

•   Physician: Audiologist, ENT Specialist.

11. Cataracts

About:

Cataracts cause clouding of the lens in your eye, making vision blurry or dim. They’re extremely common as you age, with more than 24 million Americans affected. Cataracts develop slowly and can make activities like reading or driving difficult. Fortunately, cataract surgery is safe and effective, restoring clear vision for most people.

•   Symptoms: Blurry vision, glare, faded colors.

•   Root Causes: Aging, UV exposure, diabetes.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Wear sunglasses, quit smoking.

•   Physician: Ophthalmologist.

12. Glaucoma

About:

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high pressure inside the eye. It affects about 3 million Americans and is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Glaucoma usually develops slowly and painlessly, so regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment.

•   Symptoms: Vision loss, especially peripheral vision; often none in early stages.

•   Root Causes: High eye pressure, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Get regular eye exams, manage blood pressure.

•   Physician: Ophthalmologist.

13. Macular Degeneration

About:

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the central part of the retina, leading to loss of central vision. It’s a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. AMD progresses slowly and can make activities like reading or recognizing faces more difficult, but early detection and lifestyle changes can help slow its progression.

•   Symptoms: Blurred or central vision loss.

•   Root Causes: Age, genetics, smoking.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Eat leafy greens, don’t smoke, protect eyes from UV.

•   Physician: Ophthalmologist.

14. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

About:

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that affects about half of men between 51 and 60. It can cause bothersome urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination or difficulty starting a stream. While not dangerous, BPH can impact quality of life, but there are many effective treatments available.

•   Symptoms: Frequent urination, weak stream, urgency.

•   Root Causes: Aging, hormonal changes.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Limit caffeine and alcohol, urinate on a schedule.

•   Physician: Urologist.

15. Atrial Fibrillation

About:

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular, often rapid heartbeat that increases your risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. It affects about 6 million Americans, and the risk rises with age. AFib can cause palpitations, fatigue, or dizziness, but sometimes there are no symptoms at all.

•   Symptoms: Heart palpitations, fatigue, dizziness.

•   Root Causes: Hypertension, heart disease, age.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Limit alcohol and caffeine, manage stress.

•   Physician: Cardiologist.

16. Stroke

About:

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts, depriving brain cells of oxygen. Nearly 800,000 Americans have a stroke each year, and the risk increases with age. Strokes can cause sudden weakness, speech problems, or vision loss, and require immediate medical attention.

•   Symptoms: Sudden weakness/numbness, trouble speaking, vision loss.

•   Root Causes: Hypertension, diabetes, smoking, atrial fibrillation.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Control blood pressure, eat a healthy diet, exercise.

•   Physician: Neurologist.

17. Obesity

About:

Obesity means carrying excess body fat, which increases your risk for many health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and joint issues. Over 42% of American adults are considered obese, and the risk rises with age due to slower metabolism and changes in activity levels. The good news is that even modest weight loss can have significant health benefits.

•   Symptoms: High BMI, fatigue, joint pain.

•   Root Causes: Diet, inactivity, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Eat a healthy diet, exercise, behavioral therapy.

•   Physician: Primary Care Physician, Nutritionist.

18. Sleep Apnea

About:

Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It affects about 18 million Americans, often without them knowing. It’s more common in people who are overweight, and it can lead to daytime fatigue, high blood pressure, and heart problems if left untreated.

•   Symptoms: Loud snoring, daytime drowsiness, headaches.

•   Root Causes: Obesity, age, anatomical factors.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Lose weight, avoid alcohol, sleep on your side.

•   Physician: Sleep Specialist, ENT.

19. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

About:

GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. About 20% of American adults experience GERD, and the risk increases with age. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms, but lifestyle changes and medications can provide relief.

•   Symptoms: Heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain.

•   Root Causes: Obesity, certain foods, hiatal hernia.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Lose weight, avoid trigger foods, elevate head during sleep.

•   Physician: Gastroenterologist.

20. Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis

About:

Diverticulosis refers to small pouches that form in the wall of the colon, which are common after age 50. Sometimes, these pouches become inflamed or infected, causing diverticulitis. While diverticulosis often causes no symptoms, diverticulitis can be quite painful and may require treatment.

•   Symptoms: Abdominal pain, bloating, fever (if inflamed).

•   Root Causes: Low fiber diet, aging.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Eat a high-fiber diet, stay hydrated.

•   Physician: Gastroenterologist.

21. Colon Cancer

About:

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine. It’s one of the most common cancers in older adults, with over 100,000 new cases each year in the U.S. Early stages may not cause symptoms, so regular screening is crucial for early detection and successful treatment.

•   Symptoms: Blood in stool, weight loss, bowel changes.

•   Root Causes: Age, genetics, diet, polyps.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Get regular screenings, eat a high-fiber diet, limit red meat.

•   Physician: Gastroenterologist, Oncologist.

22. Parkinson’s Disease

About:

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Nearly 1 million Americans are living with Parkinson’s, which typically starts with subtle tremors and progresses to stiffness and balance problems. While there’s no cure, medications and therapy can help manage symptoms.

•   Symptoms: Tremors, stiffness, slow movement.

•   Root Causes: Genetics, environmental factors.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Exercise, physical therapy.

•   Physician: Neurologist.

23. Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism/Hyperthyroidism)

About:

Thyroid disorders are common as we age, affecting about 20 million Americans. The thyroid controls metabolism, so when it’s underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism), it can throw off your energy, weight, and mood. Symptoms can be subtle, but blood tests make diagnosis straightforward.

•   Symptoms: Fatigue, weight changes, mood swings.

•   Root Causes: Autoimmune disease, iodine deficiency.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Regular monitoring, balanced diet.

•   Physician: Endocrinologist.

24. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

About:

PAD is a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, especially the legs. About 6.5 million Americans over 40 are affected. It can make walking painful and increase your risk for heart attack and stroke, but quitting smoking and managing risk factors can help.

•   Symptoms: Leg pain, numbness, slow-healing wounds.

•   Root Causes: Smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Quit smoking, exercise, control diabetes.

•   Physician: Vascular Specialist, Cardiologist.

25. Chronic Back Pain

About:

Chronic back pain is a persistent ache or stiffness in the back that lasts for weeks or months. It affects millions of older adults and can be caused by arthritis, disc problems, or muscle strain. While it can be frustrating, many people find relief with physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments.

•   Symptoms: Dull or aching pain, stiffness, reduced mobility.

•   Root Causes: Degenerative changes, injury, obesity.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Physical therapy, weight loss, ergonomic adjustments.

•   Physician: Orthopedist, Pain Specialist.

26. Anemia

About:

Anemia is a condition where you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. It’s fairly common in older adults, especially women, and can make you feel tired and weak. Causes range from iron deficiency to chronic diseases, and treatment depends on the underlying cause.

•   Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, pale skin.

•   Root Causes: Iron/B12 deficiency, chronic disease.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Eat iron-rich foods, treat underlying issues.

•   Physician: Hematologist, Primary Care Physician.

27. Prostate Cancer

About:

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, with nearly 300,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the U.S. The risk increases with age. Early prostate cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms, so regular screening is important, especially if you have risk factors.

•   Symptoms: Urinary issues, blood in urine, pelvic pain.

•   Root Causes: Age, genetics, diet.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Eat a healthy diet, get regular screenings.

•   Physician: Urologist, Oncologist.

28. Breast Cancer

About:

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, but men can get it too. Nearly 300,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in the U.S. The risk increases with age, but early detection through mammograms has greatly improved outcomes.

•   Symptoms: Lump, skin changes, nipple discharge.

•   Root Causes: Age, genetics, hormonal factors.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Get regular screenings, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol.

•   Physician: Oncologist, Breast Specialist.

29. Pneumonia

About:

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which can fill with fluid. Older adults are at higher risk, and the condition can be serious or even life-threatening. Vaccines and prompt treatment are important for prevention and recovery.

•   Symptoms: Cough, fever, chest pain, shortness of breath.

•   Root Causes: Bacteria, viruses, weakened immunity.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Get vaccinated, practice good hand hygiene.

•   Physician: Primary Care Physician, Pulmonologist.

30. Skin Cancer

About:

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., and your risk increases as you get older due to cumulative sun exposure. There are several types, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Most skin cancers are highly treatable when caught early, so regular skin checks and sun protection are key.

•   Symptoms: New or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, unusual skin growths.

•   Root Causes: UV exposure, fair skin, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, avoid tanning beds, check your skin regularly.

•   Physician: Dermatologist.

31. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

About:

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, which lies dormant in your nerves after childhood. About 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime, and the risk rises with age. The condition can cause severe pain and sometimes long-term nerve discomfort.

•   Symptoms: Painful rash, blisters, burning sensation, itching.

•   Root Causes: Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, weakened immunity, aging.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Get the shingles vaccine, manage stress, maintain a healthy immune system.

•   Physician: Primary Care Physician, Dermatologist.

32. Gallstones

About:

Gallstones are hard deposits that form in your gallbladder, a small organ that helps with digestion. They’re more common after age 50 and can cause sudden, severe abdominal pain if they block a duct. Most people with gallstones don’t have symptoms, but when they do, it’s important to seek care.

•   Symptoms: Sudden abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice.

•   Root Causes: Obesity, rapid weight loss, high-fat diet, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, avoid rapid dieting.

•   Physician: Gastroenterologist, Surgeon.

33. Urinary Incontinence

About:

Urinary incontinence—the loss of bladder control—can affect both men and women, but it’s especially common in older adults. It can be embarrassing and disruptive, but there are many treatments and strategies to manage it. The causes can range from weakened pelvic muscles to prostate issues or nerve damage.

•   Symptoms: Leakage, urgency, frequent urination, difficulty holding urine.

•   Root Causes: Weak pelvic floor muscles, prostate problems, nerve disorders, menopause.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), manage fluid intake, avoid bladder irritants.

•   Physician: Urologist, Gynecologist.

34. Gout

About:

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden, severe pain and swelling in the joints, often the big toe. It’s caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which form crystals in the joints. Gout attacks can be extremely painful but are treatable and often preventable with lifestyle changes.

•   Symptoms: Sudden joint pain, redness, swelling, warmth (usually in the big toe).

•   Root Causes: High uric acid, diet rich in purines, obesity, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Limit alcohol, avoid purine-rich foods (like red meat and seafood), stay hydrated, maintain a healthy weight.

•   Physician: Rheumatologist.

35. Anxiety Disorders

About:

Anxiety disorders are more than just occasional worry—they involve persistent, excessive fear or anxiety that can interfere with daily life. They’re common in older adults and can be triggered by health issues, major life changes, or even medication side effects. The good news is that anxiety is treatable, and help is available.

•   Symptoms: Persistent worry, restlessness, fatigue, trouble sleeping, irritability.

•   Root Causes: Genetics, chronic stress, health conditions, medication side effects.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Practice mindfulness, regular exercise, seek therapy, maintain social connections.

•   Physician: Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Primary Care Physician.

36. Chronic Constipation

About:

Chronic constipation means having infrequent or difficult bowel movements for weeks or longer. It’s common as we age, partly due to slower digestion, medications, or lower activity levels. While it’s usually not serious, chronic constipation can affect your quality of life and sometimes signal an underlying issue.

•   Symptoms: Hard or lumpy stools, infrequent bowel movements, straining, abdominal discomfort.

•   Root Causes: Low fiber diet, dehydration, inactivity, certain medications.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Eat more fiber, drink plenty of fluids, exercise regularly, review medications with your doctor.

•   Physician: Gastroenterologist.

37. Aortic Aneurysm

About:

An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the aorta—the body’s main artery—which can be life-threatening if it ruptures. The risk increases with age, especially for those with high blood pressure or a history of smoking. Most aneurysms don’t cause symptoms until they become large or rupture.

•   Symptoms: Often none; possible back or abdominal pain, pulsating feeling in the abdomen.

•   Root Causes: High blood pressure, atherosclerosis, smoking, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Control blood pressure, quit smoking, regular monitoring if at risk.

•   Physician: Vascular Surgeon, Cardiologist.

38. Multiple Myeloma

About:

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. It’s relatively rare but more likely to occur in people over 50. Early symptoms can be vague, like bone pain or fatigue, but advances in treatment have improved outcomes significantly.

•   Symptoms: Bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, anemia.

•   Root Causes: Genetics, age, environmental factors.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Follow treatment plans, maintain a healthy lifestyle, infection prevention.

•   Physician: Oncologist, Hematologist.

39. Liver Disease (Cirrhosis, Fatty Liver)

About:

Liver disease covers a range of conditions, including cirrhosis (scarring) and fatty liver disease. These issues become more common with age, especially in those with a history of heavy alcohol use, obesity, or hepatitis. The liver is vital for digestion and detoxification, so keeping it healthy is crucial.

•   Symptoms: Fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), swelling in abdomen or legs.

•   Root Causes: Alcohol use, hepatitis, obesity, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Limit alcohol, eat a balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, manage chronic conditions.

•   Physician: Hepatologist, Gastroenterologist.

40. Peripheral Neuropathy

About:

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that causes numbness, tingling, or weakness, usually in the hands and feet. It’s often related to diabetes, but can also result from vitamin deficiencies, alcohol use, or certain medications. Early treatment can help slow progression and relieve symptoms.

•   Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, burning pain, muscle weakness.

•   Root Causes: Diabetes, alcohol abuse, vitamin B12 deficiency, certain medications.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Control blood sugar, avoid toxins, take care of your feet, ensure proper nutrition.

•   Physician: Neurologist.

41. Rheumatoid Arthritis

About:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can affect people at any age but is more common as we get older. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent joint damage.

•   Symptoms: Joint pain, swelling, stiffness (often worse in the morning), fatigue.

•   Root Causes: Immune system dysfunction, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, anti-inflammatory diet, physical therapy, stress management.

•   Physician: Rheumatologist.

42. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

About:

DVT is the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg. It’s more likely to occur after long periods of immobility or surgery, and the risk increases with age. DVT can be dangerous if the clot travels to your lungs, so prompt treatment is important.

•   Symptoms: Leg pain or swelling, redness, warmth.

•   Root Causes: Immobility, surgery, clotting disorders, cancer.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Move regularly, stay hydrated, wear compression stockings if recommended.

•   Physician: Vascular Specialist, Hematologist.

43. Enlarged Heart (Cardiomegaly)

About:

An enlarged heart isn’t a disease itself, but a sign of another condition—often high blood pressure or heart valve disease. As we age, the risk of heart enlargement increases. It can lead to heart failure or arrhythmias, so it’s important to identify and treat the underlying cause.

•   Symptoms: Shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, swelling in legs.

•   Root Causes: High blood pressure, heart disease, valve disorders.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Control blood pressure, eat a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, manage underlying conditions.

•   Physician: Cardiologist.

44. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

About:

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by severe, persistent tiredness that isn’t improved by rest. It’s a complex, poorly understood condition that can significantly affect quality of life. While there’s no cure, symptom management and lifestyle adjustments can help.

•   Symptoms: Extreme fatigue, sleep problems, joint pain, difficulty concentrating.

•   Root Causes: Unknown; may involve immune system, infections, or stress.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Pacing activities, stress management, good sleep hygiene.

•   Physician: Primary Care Physician, Rheumatologist.

45. Peptic Ulcer Disease

About:

Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. They’re common in older adults, often due to long-term use of NSAIDs or infection with H. pylori bacteria. Ulcers can cause pain and digestive issues but are treatable.

•   Symptoms: Abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, heartburn.

•   Root Causes: H. pylori infection, NSAID use, smoking, alcohol use.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Avoid NSAIDs, quit smoking, limit alcohol, eat a balanced diet.

•   Physician: Gastroenterologist.

46. Lung Cancer

About:

Lung cancer is one of the most serious cancers, and the risk increases with age and smoking history. Early lung cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms, which is why screening is important for those at high risk. Advances in treatment have improved survival rates, especially when caught early.

•   Symptoms: Persistent cough, chest pain, weight loss, coughing up blood.

•   Root Causes: Smoking, exposure to radon or asbestos, genetics.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Quit smoking, avoid secondhand smoke and toxins, regular screenings if at risk.

•   Physician: Oncologist, Pulmonologist.

47. Dental Disease (Periodontitis)

About:

Gum disease (periodontitis) is a serious infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. It’s very common in older adults and can lead to tooth loss if untreated. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can keep your mouth healthy.

•   Symptoms: Gum bleeding, swollen or tender gums, loose teeth, bad breath.

•   Root Causes: Poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Brush and floss regularly, see a dentist for cleanings, quit smoking.

•   Physician: Dentist, Periodontist.

48. Aneurysm (Brain)

About:

A brain aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel in the brain that can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke. Most aneurysms don’t cause symptoms until they burst, but they’re more common in people over 50, especially those with high blood pressure or a family history.

•   Symptoms: Often none; sudden severe headache, vision problems, nausea if ruptured.

•   Root Causes: High blood pressure, genetics, smoking.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Control blood pressure, quit smoking, regular monitoring if at risk.

•   Physician: Neurologist, Neurosurgeon.

49. Menopause Symptoms

About:

Menopause marks the end of menstruation and fertility in women, typically occurring in the early 50s. The hormonal changes can cause a range of symptoms, some mild and others more disruptive. While menopause is natural, there are many ways to ease the transition and stay healthy.

•   Symptoms: Hot flashes, mood swings, sleep problems, vaginal dryness.

•   Root Causes: Decreased estrogen production.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, talk to your doctor about symptom management.

•   Physician: Gynecologist.

50. Vitamin D Deficiency

About:

Vitamin D deficiency is common in older adults, partly because the skin becomes less efficient at producing it from sunlight. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood. If you’re not getting enough, you may feel tired or achy, and your bones can become weaker.

•   Symptoms: Bone pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, increased risk of fractures.

•   Root Causes: Limited sun exposure, aging, poor diet, certain medical conditions.

•   Lifestyle Changes: Spend time outdoors, eat vitamin D-rich foods, consider supplements as advised by your doctor.

•   Physician: Primary Care Physician, Endocrinologist.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any concerning symptoms or health questions, please consult a qualified healthcare provider promptly.