Common pains of aging? Maybe not. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor

Feeling fatigue, weakness or depression? Don’t write those off as common signs of old age, says Dr. Christopher Callahan, director of the Center for Aging Research at Indiana University’s School of Medicine. Those symptoms could be a signal that something is wrong.

Aging is a gradual process, so if you suddenly feel dizzy and a lack of balance, develop cloudy thinking, insomnia or are running to the bathroom constantly, see your doctor.

Four common concerns of note :

• Fatigue or feeling constantly tired with no energy. Chronic weariness can lead to social isolation and loss of independence. Nearly one-third of adults over age 51 experience fatigue, according to a 2010 study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. Causes may be medications, sleep problems, arthritis and even poor nutrition.

The good news is that all can be addressed. The best way to reduce fatigue is to ensure you are physically active. Avoid being stationary for long periods of time.

• Loss of appetite and weight loss. Physical changes associated with aging and other conditions such as constipation, depression, decreased salvia production, social isolation, dental problems and even medications can contribute to loss of appetite.

Doctors advise you to pay attention if your appetite changes. Adding spices to food, sharing meals, adjusting medication and treating dental and other conditions may help.

• Depression. Researchers have found 15 percent of older adults experience major depression, according to the Geriatric Mental Health Foundation.

If you are feeling depressed, it is important to get help. Anti-depressant medications and/or cognitive behavioral therapy can help you recover and prolong your health.

• Weakness. Age-related muscle atrophy is normal, but a sudden and noticeable loss in muscle mass and strength is not. This could be sarcopenia, according to an article published in the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. If untreated, sarcopenia can affect balance, mobility and raise the risk of falling and becoming frail.

Regular exercise is critical, even as we grow older. Be sure to include resistance and strength training as well as adopt good nutritional habits.

How do you combat these symptoms? Share your tips here or visit our resource page to find helpful information.