Understanding Common Heart Complications for Seniors

Heart disease encompasses several cardiovascular complications and is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it accounts for nearly 25 percent of annual deaths, meaning someone dies of heart disease every 36 seconds.

But heart disease isn't the only heart condition causing severe complications for adults and seniors. According to the American Heart Association, 121.5 million Americas, which is almost half the population, will suffer from cardiovascular disease. February is American heart month, a time to reflect on your cardiovascular health and learn how to protect yourself from life-threatening heart conditions.

Common Heart Complications in Seniors

As we age, our hearts become more susceptible to disease, but understanding the most common heart complications' signs and symptoms can prevent or detect conditions early.

• Heart attack. When a blood clot blocks oxygen from reaching the heart, it causes a heart attack. Not everyone who experiences a heart attack experiences symptoms, but those who do have symptoms often report chest pains, sweating, nausea, and trouble breathing. Heart attacks are most common in those aged 65 and older. They're also more common in men and those with a family history of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. A heart attack is a medical emergency. If you or a loved one experiences signs of a heart attack, seek immediate medical attention.
• Coronary heart disease. When the heart arteries fail to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the heart because of a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, it causes coronary heart disease. If the heart's blood vessels don't work correctly, that can also cause coronary heart disease. The risk for coronary heart disease increases with age. Men 45 years and older and women 55 years and older have the highest chance. Other factors putting people at risk include those working near toxins, radiation or hazardous chemicals, a family history of heart disease, smoking, excessive alcohol use, unhealthy eating habits, diabetes, and high blood pressure. If left untreated, coronary heart disease can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
• Heart failure. Also called congestive heart failure, this condition happens when the heart doesn't correctly pump blood because of high blood pressure or narrowed arteries in the heart. Heart failure can be a chronic condition, or it may happen suddenly. It's most common in people who have experienced other conditions that caused damage to their heart, such as a heart attack or coronary heart disease. Heart failure symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling of the legs and feet, rapid weight gain, chest pain, and coughing up foamy mucus. Heart failure is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms.

Preventing Heart Complications

Not all heart conditions are preventable, but you can take steps to reduce your chances of suffering from heart complications.

• Physical activity. Obesity is one of the leading risk factors of heart disease, and exercising is just one of the steps needed to maintain a healthy weight. Try incorporating 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity into each day. It can be walking, swimming, yoga or cycling. Exercising too virtuously can lead to injury, so be sure to consult your doctor before starting a new workout routine.
• Healthy diet. Sticking to a healthy diet also plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy weight. Make sure you're filling your body with nutrient-rich foods, such as fresh produce and lean meats. Also, take control of your portion sizes and avoid overeating.
• Lifestyle changes. Smoking and excessive drinking weaken the heart and significantly increase your chances of developing a heart condition. Quitting can be difficult and may not be something you can do alone. If you're struggling to stop drinking or smoking, talk to your doctor about treatment options.
• Manage stress. Excessive stress is extremely harmful to the body. Being stressed doesn't directly cause heart disease, but it does increase blood pressure and cholesterol levels with are leading risk factors of heart disease. Find ways to manage and reduce your stress, such as exercise or meditation.
• Attend regular doctor's appointments. Going to the doctor isn't always fun, but it is crucial to maintain your heart health and get regular check-ups to help your doctor identify concerns early before they cause more severe issues. Also, be sure to talk to your doctor about any symptoms or complications you may be experiencing. Withholding information from your doctor could result in your medical team missing something profound.

How Visiting Angels Can Help

If you or a loved one live with a heart condition, the Visiting Angels team is here to help. Our compassionate caregivers can assist with medication reminders, healthy meal preparations, transportation to doctor's appointments, light housekeeping, and more. Our Beaver Dam office serves those in Dodge and Columbia counties. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 920.821.1111.