Introduction
The heart lies in the centre of the chest and has two sides. The right side of the heart pumps blood to the lungs to remove waste gases like carbon dioxide and collect oxygen.
The left side is responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood throughout the body.
The heart is one of the most important organs that functions day and night to keep you healthy and alive.
It is made from three layers of tissues, and as you grow older, the health of these tissues can deteriorate, making heart complications one of the most common causes of fatality in older adults.
Studies suggest that as you age, the size of the chambers of your heart may increase. This phenomenon can significantly affect the amount of blood your heart can hold, slowing the rate at which the heart pumps blood.
According to research, besides a variety of physical and mental changes, ageing can also cause arrhythmia, which can increase the risk of several heart diseases.
In this article, you’ll learn about some cardiovascular diseases that can affect older adults and the preventive measures that can help minimize the risk and maintain your heart health.
Types of heart diseases
Ageing is inevitable, and so is the onset of certain health complications due to an older age. Given below are a few cardiovascular diseases that can affect you as you age.
Atherosclerosis
It is a condition in which plaques build up inside the arteries. Plaques form when fat, calcium, cholesterol, or other contents in the blood accumulate in one place.
Over time, plaques harden and narrow your arteries, obstructing blood movement throughout the body. Thus, several cells and organs do not get enough oxygen to function appropriately.
Angina
Angina causes severe tightness in your chest and often feels like a heart attack.
Doctors suggest that some of the prominent causes of angina are physical and emotional stress.
The onset of angina may feel like a heart attack, but it is less severe. Experts say that older adults are at higher risk of angina, and it can also be an early symptom of a heart attack.
Heart attack
Heart attack is a critical condition that can lead to heart failure in anyone, especially older adults.
When the heart’s ability to pump sufficient blood is compromised, you can experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and swollen legs.
One of the best ways to minimize the risk of this condition is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The symptoms of the above-mentioned heart complications can be similar. Therefore, you must seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Severe chest pain
- Unexplained tiredness
- Sudden change in your ability to do exercises
- Heart palpitations
- Confusion & dizziness
How to manage heart health after 50
You can significantly minimize the risk of heart complications by taking certain precautionary measures.
According to research, here are a few things you can do to improve your heart health.
- Eat nutrient-dense foods and drink sufficient water (at least two litres/day)
- Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes ( brisk walking, light jogging, yoga & deep breathing)
- Swap normal water with lukewarm water
- Quit smoking & avoid alcohol
- Consult your doctor upon experiencing any discomfort
- Take your medicines on time
- Do not neglect any preexisting ailments
- Get regular diagnosis
Final thoughts
To minimize the risks of cardiac illnesses and complications, you should also opt for a preventive heart checkup.
This health check can provide you with a comprehensive insight into your heart’s health, allowing you to take necessary precautions to keep your heart healthy.
