Atrium Health Floyd's Dr. Kristin Ray Suggests Some Helpful Tips
ROME, Ga., Oct. 1, 2024 – Menopause, mammograms and massive hormonal shifts. As women approach midlife (commonly described as between 40 and 65 years of age), there comes with it a new set of unique challenges.
At an age where many women are active caregivers and at the peak of their career, this can be a difficult time to be going through the emotional and physical changes that come with menopause. But for most women, getting older doesn't mean their health has to take a downward spiral.
“It's never too late to adopt healthier habits," said Dr. Kristin Ray, who sees patients at Atrium Health Floyd Primary Care Family Medicine at 28 John Davenport Drive, Rome.
“While no one can turn back the clock, making small changes can play a role in decreasing your risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension and obesity," she added.
Ray has some advice for things you can do to maintain your overall health:
- Get moving. A body in motion stays in motion. If you've led a fairly sedentary lifestyle, now is a great time to find an activity that you enjoy. Taking small steps toward a more active lifestyle, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking further from an entrance to get in more steps in the parking lot will benefit your body. Aim for at least 30 minutes per day and work your way up. Even those who have health- or age-related limitations, such as arthritis or osteoporosis, can benefit from modified, low-impact exercise—so talk to your doctor about activities that are appropriate for you.
Moderation is key when it comes to a balanced diet. While the right diet for you may depend on your specific restrictions or health needs, most people benefit from a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, plant-based or lean animal protein, heart-healthy fats and fiber-rich grains. Your doctor will be able to recommend a plan that is right for you based on your current health status.
Have regular checkups and get screened. Prior to midlife, you should attend annual checkups during which routine blood work and a pelvic exam are standard procedure. As you enter midlife, additional health screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies and bone density screenings might be on your radar. Your doctor can recommend when and how often you'll need them based on your personal medical and family history.
Know your numbers. Knowledge is power. That's why knowing your numbers – blood pressure, BMI, triglycerides and cholesterol, just to name a few – is a valuable insight into the current state of your health. If it's been a while since you've had these tests, reach out to your doctor to get started.
- Manage stress levels. Chronic stress wreaks havoc on a person's physical and emotional well-being. Take time for yourself to relax and unwind, whether that means indulging in a good book, enjoying a workout or meditating. A good night's rest is important for stress management, and sleep disturbances are a common complaint in midlife, so be sure to mention this to your doctor to discuss management options. If you are experiencing stress not managed with lifestyle changes don't be afraid to reach out for professional help if you need it.
Prioritizing your health should be at the top of your to-do list. If you're ready to get back on track, call your primary care provider. To make an appointment with Dr. Ray, call 706-235-8485. Virtual visits are also available.
About Atrium Health Floyd
The Atrium Health Floyd family of health care services is a leading medical provider and economic force in northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama. Atrium Health Floyd is part of Charlotte, North Carolina-based Advocate Health, the third-largest nonprofit health system in the United States, created from the combination of Atrium Health and Advocate Aurora Health. Atrium Health Floyd employs more than 3,500 teammates who provide care in over 40 medical specialties at three hospitals: Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center – a 304-bed full-service, acute care hospital and regional referral center in Rome, Georgia; Atrium Health Floyd Polk Medical Center in Cedartown, Georgia; and Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee Medical Center in Centre, Alabama; as well as Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center Behavioral Health – a freestanding 53-bed behavioral health facility in Rome – and also primary care and urgent care network locations throughout northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama. Atrium Health Floyd also operates a stand-alone emergency department in Chattooga County, the first such facility to be built from the ground-up in Georgia.
About Atrium Health
Atrium Health is a nationally recognized leader in shaping health outcomes through innovative research, education and compassionate patient care. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Atrium Health is part of Advocate Health, the third-largest nonprofit health system in the United States, which was created from the combination with Advocate Aurora Health. A recognized leader in experiential medical education and groundbreaking research, Wake Forest University School of Medicine is its academic core. Atrium Health is renowned for its top-ranked pediatric, cancer and heart care, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Atrium Health is also a leading-edge innovator in virtual care and mobile medicine, providing care close to home and in the home. Ranked nationally among U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals in eight pediatric specialties and for rehabilitation, Atrium Health has also received the American Hospital Association's Quest for Quality Prize and its 2021 Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award, as well as the 2020 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Health Equity Award for its efforts to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in care. With a commitment to every community it serves, Atrium Health seeks to improve health, elevate hope and advance healing – for all, providing $2.8 billion last year in free and uncompensated care and other community benefits.
About Advocate Health
Advocate Health is the third-largest nonprofit integrated health system in the United States – created from the combination of Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. Providing care under the names Advocate Health Care in Illinois, Atrium Health in the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama, and Aurora Health Care in Wisconsin, Advocate Health is a national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Advocate Health services nearly 6 million patients and is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine serving as the academic core of the enterprise. It is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics and rehabilitation, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Advocate Health employs 155,000 teammates across 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations, and offers one of the nation's largest graduate medical education programs with over 2,000 residents and fellows across more than 200 programs. Committed to providing equitable care for all, Advocate Health provides nearly $6 billion in annual community benefits.