6 diseases that are SILENT KILLERS and what you can do to prevent each of them

Following a good diet, maintaining a healthy routine and investing in wholesome lifestyle practices is what determines your overall health. Failure to do so may result in chronic illnesses that remain forever and may lead to sudden complications.

There are many diseases that need extra attention and care. Some of them are also known as "silent killers" for the very reason that they can become severe at any given point of time, sometimes even leading to sudden death. That said, to help you stay vigilant and to be on guard, here are some health conditions that kill you silently. Also, read on to find out how you can prevent or manage it.

High blood pressure or hypertension is one of the most dangerous health conditions that can lead to other chronic illnesses. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates suggest that 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide have hypertension.

The reason why high BP is considered to be a silent killer is because it arises with no particular symptom. Only after that damage is done is when people realise the gravity of the situation. Not only does it impact the heart and the arteries, it also makes a person more prone to serious cardiovascular diseases like heart attack, heart failure, a stroke and more.

While it is hard to detect, conducting frequent and regular blood pressure checks, eating foods rich in potassium, fiber, and protein and low in salt and maintaining a healthy weight are all ways to reduce your risk of developing hypertension. People who smoke and drink should steer clear of such unhealthy practices, rather invest more time in physical activities.

Read also: What makes high blood pressure a silent killer

Many of the heart diseases are life-threatening. Coronary artery disease is one of them. It is a condition, wherein the coronary arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart narrows down, leading to chest pain (angina) or a heart attack, which are the first signs to appear.

Without proper screening and a heart-healthy lifestyle, preventing coronary artery disease is next to impossible. Even when a person suffering from the condition is given quick treatment, they may be subject to heart failure and arrhythmia.

That said, if you have a high BP and/or high cholesterol, manage it with regular check ups. Make necessary lifestyle changes such as eating healthy, getting more exercise, avoiding smoking, drinking and other unhealthy activities.

Diabetes or high blood sugar levels can be of two types, Type 1 and Type 2. In Type 1 diabetes the pancreas produces little or no insulin, whereas Type 2 diabetes impacts the way your body processes blood sugar, also known as glucose. In the case of the latter, individuals may often have no symptoms initially. Only when the disease progresses, it leads to fatigue, weight loss, frequent urination and thirst.

Advanced diabetes may also go on to affect other organs of the body such as the heart, kidney and your eyesight.

While the exact cause of diabetes is yet to be determined, focusing on proper diet, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight and regular screenings is what can prevent complications.

Read also: The 3 Ps of diabetes: Recognising the three most common symptoms of Type 2 diabetes

Osteoporosis is a bone disease, wherein the affected individual is often unaware of his or her condition, given that it shows no signs or symptoms whatsoever, until of course they undergo a fracture and get the diagnosis. This is why it is also called a silent killer. Besides affecting the density of the bones, it can also impact oral health.

Eating foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D are essential to preventing any form of bone diseases. One must invest in weight-bearing exercise including, walking, jogging, stair climbing, weight training, etc. However, regular checks are also advised.

Sleep apnea is a severe sleep disorder where people breathe loudly while sleeping. It can lead to loud snores, extreme tiredness during the day and more. Patients with severe sleep apnea are more prone and vulnerable to sudden deaths and stroke during sleep, which also makes it a silent killer. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, where in your airways repeatedly become completely or partially blocked during sleep.

For mild cases of sleep apnea, a certain lifestyle change may just do the trick. Losing weight, eating well, quitting smoking and getting the right treatments for nasal allergies can help you get rid of the condition or even manage it well. However, consult your doctor to know how mild or severe you case of sleep apnea is, so they can prescribe treatments accordingly.

The growth of fatty liver disease in the body is gradual and has no significant trace initially, which makes it a silent killer. Two types of fatty liver illnesses exist - alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. As the term itself suggests, the former occurs due to excessive alcohol consumption, the reason for the occurrence of the latter is not yet known. In advanced stages both can lead to cirrhosis, a final stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver.

As far as fatty liver is concerned, diet plays a very important role. Opt for a healthy plant-based diet and avoid eating anything with unhealthy fats. Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly. Go for regular health screenings and listen to what your doctors have to say.