Heart disease is the leading cause of death, and according to the US National Institute on Aging, older adults are more likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or coronary heart disease (commonly called heart disease) and heart failure. the heart More than younger people, and in the next lines we will explain the signs of heart disease that the elderly should know, according to what was published by the “eatthis” website.
How does heart disease affect the elderly?
As the heart ages, the risk of heart disease, such as a heart attack, stroke, or coronary artery disease, becomes more common, especially in adults over 65. Sensitive heart tissue, especially the left ventricle, becomes stiffer and weaker. Exercise is more important as we age because it can slow the deterioration of heart tissue and keep levels of oxygen-rich blood high throughout the body.
Decreased blood flow to the extremities
Many elderly people experience numbness and tingling in the hands and feet or may notice that the fingers and toes are getting colder, and although they are familiar, these symptoms are not typical and indicate possible damage to the arteries and blood vessels. and narrow. When blood vessels narrow, the tissues farther in the hands and feet don’t receive as much oxygen-rich blood as they should. Older adults may ignore these symptoms and wear warmer clothing, but they should also talk to their doctor regarding their heart health.
chest tightness
Chest pain is a well-known symptom of heart disease, but many elderly people may not be concerned with feeling tight in the chest. Chest tightness can be caused by physical activity or emotional stress, but it should be worrisome when it is not accompanied by exercise or stress. Angina pectoris Pain and tightness in the chest, which can be an early symptom of heart disease, and should not be ignored.
leg swelling
Swelling in the legs, known as edema, is caused by excess fluid trapped in the tissues of the body. The main cause of edema is a malfunction somewhere in the vascular system and can indicate congestive heart failure.
confusion
Confusion can refer to a lack of blood flow to the brain due to thick or weak arteries or low output from the heart. Sometimes, thought processes are disrupted without other symptoms of low oxygen, such as numbness and tingling, but confusion or disorientation can occur on its own.