Women and men are faced with many of the same health problems, but these can affect women differently. In some cases, the symptoms of the same disease manifest themselves differently in women. For example, women suffering from heart disease may have different symptoms compared to those found in men. Some diseases or conditions are more common in women, such as osteoarthritis, obesity and depression. Also, a whole range of conditions, such as menopause and pregnancy, are unique to women.
Modern women also have a challenging role in society. Combining their role in the family as well as pursuing a career can lead to a unique set of challenges and sacrifices. Women sometimes neglect their own health and focus instead on their partner’s and their children’s. Endometriosis, polycystic ovaries, fibromyalgia, uterine and breast cancer are becoming more common. Many younger women are forced to deal with these challenges. As aging progresses, women are faced with new challenges triggered by hormonal changes. These can have a profound affect on their lives and their relationships.
Prevention plays a large role in female medicine. Regular screening and checkups can help to detect health problems early and facilitate their successful treatment. Many doctors and physical therapists specialize specifically in the treatment of health issues unique to women. One common disease to affect young women is fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is far more common in women than in men. Some studies link this to lower serotonin levels in women. Other theories state that fibromyalgia is caused by biochemical changes in the body and may be related to hormonal changes or menopause. Autoimmune diseases are also very common in women. Autoimmune diseases affect approximately 8% of the population, 78% of whom are women. This includes disorders such as lupus erythematosus, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and MS.