Definition

Aging is the process of growing older and showing a progressive deterioration of bodily function over a period of time. It is the result of a series of chemical activities in our bodies failing or malfunctioning.

Description

You normally think about aging when you see wrinkly, thick skin, grey hair or baldness, or if you see deterioration in movement, general physical debility and decreased brain function. Chronological age and biological age are not the same however.  Your chronological age is not so important.

Statistics

By 2030 the number of elderly people is expected to double… This rise will make up 5% of the population by 2050 (as compared with 1.4% today) These figures are drawn from the Bureau of the Census' middle series of projections.

Causes

Premature aging of your brain, circulation, heart, joints, skin, digestive tract and immune system can begin at any time of life. Various factors may cause your body to deteriorate faster including injuries, allergies, toxins, heavy metals, smoking, poor nutrition, stress and inactivity.

Diagnosis

To begin the process of treatment your healthcare practitioner needs to determine your health status.  He/she may carry out tests for antioxidant status, digestive analysis, immune system function, hormone status and circulatory condition.  Your lifestyle will also be discussed for any contributory factors that may require attention.

Signs and Symptoms

Generally your body sends you some kind of message to let you know it is malfunctioning. These messages can take the form of pain, inflammation, joint instability, insufficient blood supply, high blood pressure, muscle weakness.Treatment

There is no need for you to just accept signs of aging.

Conventional Treatments

Millions of prescriptive medicines are provided each year to patients suffering from age-related diseases and symptoms.  These medications will sometimes be successful in suppressing your symptoms, but hardly ever rectify your underlying condition.