Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a common heart condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is also known as coronary artery disease and is caused by the buildup of fatty deposits in the walls of arteries over many years.
CHD is more prevalent in the elderly population, and people aged 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack, to have a stroke, or to develop CHD and heart failure.
In this article, we will discuss CHD in the elderly population, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention measures.
Causes of Coronary Heart Disease in Elderly People.
The most common cause of CHD is damage to the coronary arteries due to a buildup of cholesterol on the walls of the blood vessels and creating fatty plaques.
This condition is known as atherosclerosis, meaning there is a narrowing of the coronary arteries, resulting in a reduction of blood flow to the heart. Other rarer causes of CHD include an embolism or clot in the blood vessel.
There are various risk factors for the buildup of cholesterol and other substances that can play a part in the development of CHD, such as:
1. Smoking:
If your loved one smokes, this puts them at higher risk of developing CHD. Smokers are at a 24% higher risk of developing the heart condition than non-smokers. Nicotine and carbon monoxide present in the smoke both put an increased strain on the heart, forcing it to work faster.
Smoking also increases the risk of developing blood clots. Chemicals in cigarette smoke can damage the lining of the coronary arteries, and this can lead to the blood vessels becoming narrow.
2. Hypertension:
Another common risk factor in the elderly is hypertension or high blood pressure. High blood pressure can put an increased strain on the heart that can eventually lead to the development of CHD.
It’s important to monitor your loved one’s blood pressure, and steps should be taken to ensure it remains at a lower level. Diet plays a vital role in managing hypertension. Your loved one should reduce their salt intake through close monitoring of the foods they consume.
3. Diabetes: People with diabetes are also at increased risk of atherosclerosis, and their blood sugar levels must be monitored regularly.
4. Family history: If your loved one has a family history of CHD or other heart conditions, they may be at higher risk for developing CHD themselves.
5. Obesity: Obesity increases your loved one’s risk for developing CHD by putting an increased strain on their heart.
6. Sedentary lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle can increase your loved one’s risk for developing CHD by putting an increased strain on their heart.
Symptoms of Coronary Heart Disease in Elderly People.
The symptoms of CHD in elderly people can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some common symptoms include:
1. Chest pain (angina): You may feel pressure or tightness in your chest. Some people say it feels like someone is standing on their chest. The chest pain usually occurs on the middle or left side of the chest. Activity or strong emotions can trigger angina.
2. Shortness of breath: You may feel like you can't catch your breath.
3. Fatigue: If the heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs, you may feel unusually tired.
4. Heart attack: A completely blocked coronary artery will cause a heart attack.
Symptoms may go unnoticed until a significant blockage causes problems or a heart attack occurs. If you think you're having a heart attack, immediately call your local emergency number.
Treatment Options for Coronary Heart Disease in Elderly People.
Treatment for CHD depends on several factors such as age, overall health status, medical history, etc., but it usually involves lifestyle changes such as not smoking, eating healthy and exercising more. Sometimes medications and procedures are needed.
1. Medications: Medications such as antihistamines and anticholinergics may provide immediate relief from vertigo, dizziness and nausea. However, these drugs can cause drowsiness.
2. Physical therapy: Physical therapy exercises such as canalith repositioning (or Epley maneuver) usually help resolve benign paroxysmal positional vertigo more quickly than simply waiting for your dizziness to go away. It can be done by your doctor, an audiologist or a physical therapist and involves maneuvering the position of your head.
3. Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes such as avoiding sudden movements and staying hydrated can help reduce the frequency and severity of vertigo episodes.
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