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As we mature, we easily notice changes that are visible to the naked eye, such as changes in skin, muscle tone, and even hair color, but the changes that occur beneath the surface are less obvious, especially changes in the heart.
In honor of Heart Health Month this February, we spoke to Dr. Anish Bhuva, HCA Healthcare Wellington Hospital, UKto understand what structural and functional changes occur in the heart as we age. He also shares some practical advice on how to deal with some of these effects to help keep your heart healthy and resilient later in life.
The size of the heart muscle may be reduced
“Muscles throughout the body tend to lose mass over time, and we are increasingly consciously trying to reverse the rate of this decline,” Bois said. “The heart, like any other muscle, exhibits this process. The heart muscle also undergoes small changes, meaning it also becomes thinner over time. This in itself usually doesn’t cause too much damage, but it is a process that can be seen as we age.”
aortic stenosis
“There are four valves in the heart, and all of them open and close with every heartbeat throughout a person’s life,” Bois said. “The function of the heart valve is to support efficient blood flow and prevent it from flowing backwards.”
But as we age, the aortic valve may narrow and stop working properly, a condition called aortic stenosis. British heart foundation website.
“Over time, just like a car’s engine, it does wear out,” Bois said. “Heart valves gradually deteriorate, calcium builds up, and the valves become stiffer and thicker, making it difficult to open properly.
“This can start to cause difficulty in blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body because it blocks the flow.”
Blood vessels and arteries can become stiffer
“One of the hallmarks of aging is that the aorta and blood vessels become stiffer,” Bois said. “When your blood vessels become stiff, it increases your risk of stroke and heart disease.”
Heart rate cannot increase as quickly during physical activity
“You may find that with physical activity, your heart rate doesn’t increase as quickly as it did when you were younger,” says Bois. “Most people tolerate this condition, but for some it can cause symptoms and problems that may be relieved by a pacemaker.”
Wear and tear on the wires inside the heart
“Over time, the wires within the heart also wear out,” the cardiologist added. “This usually doesn’t cause any problems, but for some people it can cause an abnormally slow or abnormally fast heart rhythm. people Chest tightness, dizziness, or fainting may occur, or there may be no symptoms at all. “
Increased risk of heart attack
“The most common risk factor for heart attack is age,” Bois said. “Unfortunately, as you enter middle age and beyond, the likelihood of a heart attack increases.
“That’s why it’s so important to be proactive in identifying what factors in your life may be accelerating the aging and degenerative processes of the heart.”
What can we do to combat some of these effects?
quit smoking
“If you’re concerned about a family history of heart disease, the first thing to do is quit smoking,” Bois says. “smoking Damage arteries and lead to cholesterol plaque buildup. “
Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
“Make sure to monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure,” Bois advises. “Once you reach age 40, we recommend a wellness exam with your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and all other common risk factors. Older adults should have an annual checkup.”
healthy eating
“Five meals a day are very important, so be sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables,” says Bois. “Try to eat less red meat and more oily fish, as this is really good for cholesterol. Also, try to reduce your intake of artificial sugars.”
move your body
“The most beneficial thing you can do is start acting in any way possible,” Bois said. “You don’t need to run a marathon every year, just a small amount of exercise every day, such as walking, to really benefit.
“Exercise can help slow down the aging process of the cardiovascular system in a number of different ways.”