As the economy worsens around the world, Americans and others in the Western world have been reporting anxiety, depression and stress-related symptoms in increasing numbers. This is doubly problematic because those individuals bearing the brunt of these stress induced illnesses are also among the most likely not to have health insurance. Some of the most common health problems increasing as a result of a downturn in the American economy that I found in a fascinating article. See how many you tick off!

Common problems include stress, diabetes, hypertension, depression, insomnia etc. etc. I will list more detail over the coming days. It makes pretty depressing reading but I think we need to make sure we do not stick our heads in the sand over what we are facing in todays world!

As promised here are some of the very 21st century ailments courtesy of [url]http://www.pharmacy-technician-certification.com/?page_id=64[/url]

1. Stress: “Time” magazine identified stress at the leading health problem in the United States and undoubtedly this is the most correlated heath issue with economic woes. High levels of stress can lead to increased heart rate, high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, diabetes, ulcers, lower back pain, and more. Treatments for stress range from yoga to therapy to medication and differs per individual and stress level.

2. Overweight: A study: by the department of Health and Human Services has concluded that 32.7% of adults aged 20 and over in the United States are overweight. Job losses and work-related stress are often triggers of overeating and lead to weight gain. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention reports that these individuals are at a greater risk for heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancers, and more.

3. Obesity: Those with a body mass index greater than or equal to 30.0 are considered to be obese. While obesity can be genetic, it is contributed to by the same workplace stresses that increase in a down economy. Obese individuals are at an increased risk for many health serious health conditions. Diet, exercise, and even surgery are among the treatments.

I saw that too so I thought that I would give Paddy a hand with listing the culprits, it is quite frightening! I was particularly surprised about the one with the cold and flu!

4. Extreme Obesity: A BMI of 40.0 or over defines extreme obesity. The number of obese Americans has jumped to 5.9% for adults, and is a relatively new phenomenon, a product of both our extremely sedentary lifestyle and contributed to by depression and workplace stress. These individual have a higher mortality rate and are at extreme risk for serious diseases. Gastric bypass surgery is a common treatment for this condition, along with diet and exercise.

5. Cold or Flu: The common cold is one of the most widespread sicknesses among Americans and is often triggered by short bouts with stress, such as that which might arise from falling behind in paying bills. Although a mild condition, it can lead to high fever, throat infections, and sinus issues. Flu can be caused by infections, change in working environment, exposure to heat, and many other reasons. It can be treated with medications and most individual recover in days.

6. High Cholesterol: High LDL or low HDL can be a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. This condition can be caused by an unhealthy diet. If changes in diet do not help cholesterol levels, a doctor should be consulted for medication.

Here are the next three in the 25 21st century ailments!

7. Diabetes: This disease affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar for energy. The main types include type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Symptoms may include increased thirst and urination, blurred vision, and fatigue. Risk factors include family history, age, insulin resistance syndrome, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Treatments include lifestyle changes and medication. An individual with advanced diabetes may be required to have amputation surgery.

8. Heart Disease: Congenital and Peripheral Artery Disease can lead to serious health problems such as a heart attack or stroke. Those with high cholesterol, diabetes, or obesity are at higher risk for heart disease. The HeartHub has an array of resources for those suffering from this disease including tips for diet, exercise, warning signs, and more.

9. High Blood Pressure: Although it is estimated that one in three American adults have high blood pressure, most don’t know about it. Senior citizens and African Americans are most commonly affected by high blood pressure and should have theirs checked regularly. Ignoring high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, or kidney failure. It can be treated with diet, exercise, and medication

So far I've ticked quite a few, what about you?!

10. Insomnia: This is a medical condition where the person suffers from sleeplessness. The most common reason for this is stress. The patient with insomnia also suffers from lethargy and tiredness. The sickness is curable and is treated by light medications.

11. Sinus Infection: Also a common health condition, this can cause pressure in the eyes, nose, cheeks, and could lead to the throat infection. It is mostly curable at its early stages with a doctor’s help and it does not impose serious threat to a person. However if the infection persists, a complete medical examination should be taken to avoid any serious issues.

Then there are the mental Health Disorders! These disorders affect an estimated 22% of American adults each year, and can be either directly or indirectly caused by a variety of effects of a depressed economy. I will let you know some of the most common disorders and addictions.