Many senior citizens have some type of heart condition. This is why it is important to learn all you can about heart conditions and heart diseases. The more you know, the easier it is to identify a heart problem in your elderly loved one. In addition, if you know more about these conditions and diseases, you can take steps to lower the risk of it getting worse and increase your elder loved one’s odds of having a full recovery.
Elderly Adults and Heart Disease
Some studies show that generally, heart disease is a result of an unhealthy lifestyle. In addition, aging is a big factor when it comes to getting the disease. This is why the elderly should keep an eye out for signs that they might have heart disease.
Some of these warning signs include the following:
- Pain in the upper body region
- Trouble breathing
- Continuous coughing
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Swollen ankles
- Feeling dizzy
- Confusion
- Chest pain
In many cases, heart disease can be treatable. If your elderly loved one notices any warning signs, they should contact their doctor as soon as possible. You or their elder care provider can get them to their appointment.
Elderly Adults and Heart Valve Disease
There are 4 separate valves in the heart that carry blood throughout the body. If even 1 of these valves malfunctions, it can interrupt the blood flow to your elderly loved one’s body. A damaged heart valve in an elderly adult can be very dangerous. This is why it is essential to watch out for heart valve disease warning signs.
Some of these signs include the following:
- Swelling around ankles
- Fainting
- Heart murmur
- Shortness of breath during activity or while sitting still
If you notice any of these signs in your elderly loved one, be sure to get them medical attention.
Elderly Adults and Congestive Heart Failure
It is important to understand that congestive heart failure isn’t a disease. It occurs from other diseases that have caused the heart to weaken. With congestive heart failure, blood can’t be pumped at a normal rate. This can cause fluid to build up in certain areas of the body. It can also put pressure on the heart and stop oxygen from getting to various areas in the body. Congestive heart failure is particularly dangerous in the elderly. It could eventually lead to heart failure.
Elderly Adults and Other Heart Conditions
There are several other heart conditions that you should be aware of. For instance, arrhythmia often commonly occurs in elderly adults. An elderly adult might find their heart muscle has weakened due to thyroid problems or cancer treatments, as well. If you suspect that your elderly loved one has any heart health issues or conditions, you should schedule an appointment with their doctor.
Conclusion
Heart disease can be dangerous. However, if it is caught early, it can usually be managed. This is why you need to encourage your elderly loved one to get regular physicals and practice healthy habits.
Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/heart-health-and-aging
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3223374/