Heart of heart after 50: what to do

Heart of heart after 50: what to do

I. The cardiovascular system after 50: changes and risks

After fifty years, the cardiovascular system undergoes a number of natural changes that increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (SVD). Understanding these changes and related risks is the first step to maintain the health of the heart at this age.

A. Age -related changes in the heart and vessels:

1. Thickening of the walls of the heart: With the age of the wall of the left ventricle, the main pumping chamber of the heart, can thicken, which leads to a decrease in its elasticity and the ability to effectively pump blood. This condition, called left ventricular hypertrophy (GLG), can lead to heart failure.

   • Pathophysiology GLG: The CLL often develops in response to an increased heart load, for example, with aortic hypertension or stenosis. A constant increase in blood pressure makes the heart work more zealous to pump blood against greater resistance. This leads to an increase in the size of the cells of the heart muscle (hypertrophy). Over time, hypertrophied cells can become less effective and less capable of contracting, which leads to heart failure.
   • Diagnostics GLG: The CHLH can be diagnosed using an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart). The ECG can show characteristic changes in the electrical activity of the heart, while echocardiography allows you to visualize the size and thickness of the walls of the left ventricle.
   • GLG treatment: HLG treatment is aimed at reducing the load on the heart and improving its function. This may include control of blood pressure, the treatment of aorta stenosis and the use of drugs, such as ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II (sconces) receptor blockers, which help reduce pressure and reduce hypertrophy.

2. Reducing the elasticity of blood vessels (atherosclerosis): The walls of arteries become less elastic and more rigid, which complicates their expansion and reduction in response to changes in blood pressure. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, is the main reason for the development of the SVD.

   • Aterosclerosis mechanism: Atherosclerosis begins with damage to the inner shell of arteries (endothelium). This damage can be caused by various factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and diabetes. The damaged endothelium becomes more susceptible to the accumulation of low density lipoproteins (LDL), or “poor” cholesterol. LDL penetrate the wall of the arteries and oxidize, which leads to an inflammatory reaction. Immune cells, such as macrophages, absorb oxidized LDLs and turn into “foamy cells”. Over time, foamy cells accumulate in the artery wall, forming atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques can narrow the lumen of the arteries, limiting the blood flow, and can burst, leading to the formation of blood clots and sudden heart attacks or strokes.
   • Atherosclerosis risk factors: The risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis include: high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, family history of the SSZ and a sedentary lifestyle.
   • Diagnosis of atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis can be diagnosed using various methods, including measurement of blood pressure, blood test for assessing cholesterol and other lipids, ultrasound of arteries (Dopplerography) to evaluate blood flow and the presence of plaques, angiography (X -ray examination of blood vessels using contrast agent) for visualization of arteries and computed Tomography (CT) of the heart for assessing the calcification of coronary arteries.

3. Reduced the function of the sinus node: The sinus node, which is a natural pacemaker of the heart, can function less effectively, which leads to a slowdown in heart rhythm (bradycardia) or other heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias).

   • Sinus Up function: The sinus node is located in the right atrium and generates electrical impulses that initiate each heartbeat. These impulses spread through the atrium, forcing them to contract, and then reach the atrioventricular (AB) node, which slows down the impulses, allowing the atriums to completely empty into the ventricles. Then the pulses are transmitted along the bundle of Gis and the fibers of Purkinya, causing a contraction of the ventricles.
   • Sine dysfunction: The dysfunction of the sinus node can be caused by various factors, including age -related changes, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, some drugs and diseases of the thyroid gland.
   • Symptoms of sinus node dysfunction: Symptoms of sinus node dysfunction may include fatigue, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath and chest pain.
   • Treatment of sinus node dysfunction: Treatment of sinus node dysfunction depends on the severity of the symptoms. In some cases, there may be enough to change the lifestyle and the termination of medication that can cause dysfunction. In other cases, it may be necessary to install a pacemaker to regulate the heart rhythm.

4. Increasing the rigidity of the heart valves: The valves of the heart, which provide a unidirectional blood flow, can become more stringent and less flexible with age, which can lead to stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (reverse current) of blood.

   • Types of valve lesions: The most common valve lesions are the aortic valve stenosis, mitral stenosis, aortic regurgitation and mitral regurgitation.
   • Causes of valve lesions: The causes of valves can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired. The acquired causes include rheumatic fever, infectious endocarditis, degenerative changes (associated with age) and coronary heart disease.
   • Symptoms of valve lesions: Symptoms of valves can include shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, chest pain and swelling of the legs.
   • Diagnosis of valve lesions: Valve lesions can be diagnosed using auscultation (listening to the heart using a stethoscope), echocardiography and other visualization methods such as CT and MRI of the heart.
   • Treatment of valve lesions: Treatment of valve lesions depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, there may be enough drug therapy to control the symptoms. In other cases, surgical intervention may be required to restore or replace the damaged valve.

B. The main risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases after 50 years:

1. High blood pressure (hypertension): Hypertension is one of the most common and significant risk factors for the development of SVD. With age, blood pressure tends to increase due to a decrease in vascular elasticity and other changes in the cardiovascular system.

   • Determination of hypertension: Hypertension is defined as blood pressure exceeding 130/80 mm Hg. Art.
   • The effect of hypertension on the heart: Hypertension provides a significant load on the heart, forcing it to work more diligently in order to pump blood against greater resistance. This can lead to hypertrophy of the left ventricle, heart failure, coronary heart disease, stroke and renal failure.
   • Control of blood pressure: Control of blood pressure includes a change in lifestyle (healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises, weight loss, smoking and restriction of alcohol consumption) and drug therapy (diuretics, ACE inhibitors, braids, beta-blockers and calcium channels blockers).

2. High cholesterol level: A high level of cholesterol, especially LDL (“bad” cholesterol), contributes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries, which leads to narrowing of the vessels and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

   • Types of cholesterol: Cholesterol is a waxy substance contained in all cells of the body. It is necessary for the construction of cell membranes and the production of hormones and vitamin D. There are two main types of cholesterol: LDL and HDL (high density lipoproteins), or “good” cholesterol. LDL transfers cholesterol from the liver to the cells of the body. If there are too many LDLs in the blood, it can accumulate in the walls of the arteries, forming atherosclerotic plaques. HDL helps to remove cholesterol from arteries and delivers it back to the liver to eliminate the body.
   • Target levels of cholesterol: Target levels of cholesterol depend on the individual risk of the development of the SVD. As a rule, it is recommended that the LDL level is below 100 mg/DL, the level of LDP is above 40 mg/DL for men and above 50 mg/DL for women, and the total cholesterol level is below 200 mg/DL.
   • Close -to -level decrease in cholesterol: A decrease in cholesterol includes a change in lifestyle (healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises, weight loss and smoking rejection) and drug therapy (statins, PCSK9 cholesterol absorption inhibitors).

3. Diabetes sugar: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of CVD. A high blood sugar damage blood vessels, accelerates the development of atherosclerosis and increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke and other complications.

   • The effect of diabetes on the heart: Diabetes has many negative effects on the cardiovascular system. The high level of blood sugar damages the vascular endothelium, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. Diabetes also increases the level of triglycerides and reduces the level of HDL, which also contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, diabetes can cause changes in the structure and function of the heart muscle, which leads to diabetic cardiomyopathy.
   • Diabetes control: Diabetes control includes a change in lifestyle (healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises, weight loss and smoking rejection) and drug therapy (metformin, sulfonyl gross sulfonyls, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors and insulin).

4. Obesity: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of development of hypertension, high level of cholesterol, diabetes and other risk factors of the SVD. Excessive weight has an additional load on the heart and blood vessels.

   • The influence of obesity on the heart: Obesity increases the risk of developing hypertension, high levels of cholesterol, diabetes and apnea in a dream, which, in turn, increase the risk of CVD. Obesity also has a direct effect on the heart, leading to hypertrophy of the left ventricle, heart failure and arrhythmias.
   • Weight loss: The weight loss includes a change in lifestyle (healthy nutrition and regular physical exercises) and, in some cases, drug therapy or surgical intervention (bariatric surgery).

5. Smoking: Smoking is one of the most powerful and preventive risk factors for the development of SVD. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco smoke damage blood vessels, increase blood pressure, reduce the level of HDLs and increase the risk of blood clots.

   • The effect of smoking on the heart: Smoking has many negative effects on the cardiovascular system. Nicotine increases blood pressure and heart rhythm, narrows blood vessels and increases the risk of blood clots. Burning gas reduces the ability of blood to tolerate oxygen. Smoking also damages the vascular endothelium, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis.
   • Refusal of smoking: Refusal of smoking is one of the most important steps that can be taken to improve heart health. There are various methods that can help quit smoking, including nicotin -replacement therapy (patching, chewing gums, candies and inhalers), drug therapy (bupropion and dumplings) and consultations.

6. Sedentary lifestyle: The lack of regular physical exercises increases the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Physical activity helps to strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of CVD.

   • The benefits of physical activity: Regular physical exercises help strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation, reduce blood pressure, increase the level of HDLs, reduce LDL levels and control weight.
   • Physical activity recommendations: It is recommended to engage in moderate intensity with aerobic exercises of at least 150 minutes a week or intense aerobic exercises of at least 75 minutes a week. It is also recommended to engage in strength exercises at least twice a week.

7. Family history of cardiovascular disease: The presence of close relatives (parents, brothers or sisters) with the early history of the CVD (up to 55 years for men and up to 65 years for women) increases your personal risk of developing these diseases.

   • Genetic predisposition: The genetic predisposition plays a certain role in the development of the SVD. People with the family history of the SSZ can have genetic options that increase their risk of high blood pressure, high level of cholesterol, diabetes and other risk factors of the SVD.
   • Life and genetics: It is important to remember that a genetic predisposition does not mean the inevitability of the development of SVD. A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of CVD, even if you have a family history of these diseases.

8. Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the body plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis and other SVDs. Factors such as smoking, obesity, diabetes and some infections can cause chronic inflammation.

   • Inflammation and atherosclerosis: Inflammation plays a key role at all stages of the development of atherosclerosis, from damage to the endothelium to rupture of atherosclerotic plaques.
   • Inflammation markers: The level of inflammation in the body can be estimated using blood tests, such as C-reactive protein (CRB).
   • Reduced inflammation: A decrease in inflammation includes a change in lifestyle (healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises, weight loss and smoking rejection) and, in some cases, drug therapy (statins and aspirin).

II. Prevention of cardiovascular diseases after 50 years: Change in lifestyle

The prevention of SSZ after 50 years requires an integrated approach, including a change in lifestyle, regular medical examinations and, if necessary, drug therapy. A change in lifestyle is the cornerstone of the SSZ prevention and can significantly reduce the risk of developing these diseases.

A. Healthy nutrition for the heart:

1. Mediterranean diet: The Mediterranean diet is one of the most healthy and recommended types of heart health. It is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole cereals, legumes, nuts, seeds, olive oil and fish. It limits the consumption of red meat, treated foods, sugar and saturated fats.

   • Components of the Mediterranean diet:
     • Fruits and vegetables: Eat at least five portions of fruits and vegetables per day.
     • Whole cereals: Choose whole grain products, such as whole grain bread, brown rice and oatmeal.
     • Legumes: Eat legumes, such as beans, lentils and peas, several times a week.
     • Nuts and seeds: Eat small portions of nuts and seeds every day.
     • Olive oil: Use olive oil as the main source of fat.
     • Fish: Eat fish, especially oily fish, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, at least twice a week.
     • Red meat: Limit the consumption of red meat to several times a month.
     • Processed products: Avoid processed products such as fast food, chips and sweets.
     • Sahar: Limit sugar consumption.
     • Saturated fats: Limit the consumption of saturated fats contained in red meat, dairy products and fried products.

2. Limiting the consumption of saturated and trans fats: Saturated fats and trans fats increase the level of LDL (“bad” cholesterol) in the blood, which contributes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Saturated fats are found in red meat, dairy products (oil, cheese, cream) and palm oil. Transfiders are contained in processed products, such as margarine, baking and fried products.

   • Sources of saturated fats: Limit the consumption of red meat, fatty dairy products (oil, cheese, cream) and tropical oils (palm and coconut).
   • Sources of trans fats: Avoid products containing hydrogenated oils such as margarine, pastries and fried foods.

3. Consumption of a sufficient amount of fiber: Fiber helps to reduce blood cholesterol, control blood sugar and maintain healthy weight. Fiber is found in fruits, vegetables, whole cereals, legumes, nuts and seeds.

   • Soluble and insoluble fiber: There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel -shaped substance that helps reduce cholesterol and control blood sugar. Soluble fiber is contained in oatmeal, apples, citrus and legumes. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and helps maintain the regularity of the intestine. Insoluble fiber is contained in whole grain products, vegetables and fruits.
   • Recommended fiber consumption: It is recommended to consume at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day.

4. Restriction of salt consumption (sodium): Excessive salt consumption increases blood pressure, which increases the risk of CVD. It is recommended to consume no more than 2300 mg of sodium per day (about 1 teaspoon of salt). Many processed products and semi -finished products contain a large amount of salt, so it is important to read labels and choose products with a low sodium content.

   • Hidden salt sources: Many processed products, such as bread, soups, sauces and finished dishes, contain a large amount of salt.
   • Salt consumption tips:
     • Prepare food at home to control the amount of salt.
     • Use herbs and spices to give the taste of food instead of salt.
     • Read the labels of products and choose low sodium products.
     • Avoid salted appetizers such as chips and crackers.
     • Do not add salt to the table at the table.

5. Portion size control: Overflow can lead to weight gain, which increases the risk of CVD. Try to control the size of the portions and eat slowly to feel fed.

   • Portations control tips:
     • Use smaller plates and bowls.
     • Do not eat directly from the package.
     • Read the labels of products to find out the size of the portion.
     • Eat slowly and consciously.
     • Stop eating when you feel full.

B. Regular physical activity:

1. Aerobic exercises: Aerobic exercises, such as walking, running, swimming, cycling and dancing, strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure. It is recommended to engage in moderate intensity with aerobic exercises of at least 150 minutes a week or intense aerobic exercises of at least 75 minutes a week.

   • Examples of moderate intensity of aerobic exercises: Fast walking, swimming, cycling in flat terrain and dancing.
   • Examples of intensive aerobic exercises: Running, swimming at a fast pace, cycling in the mountain and aerobics.

2. Power training: Power training helps strengthen muscles and bones, improve metabolism and reduce the risk of diabetes. It is recommended to engage in strength exercises at least twice a week.

   • Examples of strength exercises: Lift weights, exercises using your own weight (push -ups, squats, attacks) and exercises with elastic ribbons.

3. Flexibility and balance: Exercises for flexibility and balance, such as yoga and tai-chi, help improve coordination, reduce the risk of falls and improve overall well-being.

   • Examples of flexibility exercises: Muscle stretching.
   • Examples of balance exercises: Standing on one leg, walking along the line and tai-chi.

4. Start gradually: If you are not used to physical activity, start with small loads and gradually increase their intensity and duration. It is important to choose classes that you like to maintain motivation and adhere to regular physical activity.

   • Tips for beginners:
     • Start with 10-15 minutes of physical activity per day.
     • Gradually increase the duration and intensity of training.
     • Choose classes that you like.
     • Take physical activity with friends or family.
     • Consult a doctor before starting a new program of physical activity.

C. Maintaining a healthy weight:

1. A combination of healthy nutrition and physical activity: Maintaining a healthy weight requires a combination of healthy diet and regular physical activity. Reduce the consumption of calories, saturated fats, trans fats, sugar and salt. Increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole cereals, legumes, nuts and seeds. Take a moderate intensity of aerobic exercises at least 150 minutes a week or intense aerobic exercises at least 75 minutes a week. Do strength exercises at least twice a week.

   • Calculation of the body mass index (BMI): BMI is an indicator that is used to assess weight depending on growth. BMI is calculated by the formula: weight (in kilograms) / height (in meters) in a square. BMI from 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal, BMI from 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight, and BMI 30 or more is considered obesity.
   • Weight loss goals: If you have overweight or obesity, the loss of even a small amount of weight (5-10% of the starting weight) can significantly improve your health.

2. Appeal to a specialist: If it is difficult for you to independently reduce weight, consult a nutritionist or doctor who will help you develop an individual nutrition and physical exercise plan.

   • Professional support: A nutritionist can help you develop a nutrition plan that meets your needs and preferences. The doctor can help you determine the causes of overweight and prescribe medications or other treatment methods, if necessary.

D. Refusal of smoking:

1. Search for support: To quit smoking can be difficult, but it is possible. Contact a doctor or a refusal specialist to get support and help. There are various methods that can help quit smoking, including nicotin -replacement therapy (patching, chewing gums, candies and inhalers), drug therapy (bupropion and dumplings) and consultations.

   • Nicotin -replaced therapy: Nicotin -replacement therapy helps reduce the symptoms of nicotine cancellation, such as traction, irritability and anxiety.
   • Drug therapy: Bupropion and Vareniklin are drugs that help reduce the craving for nicotine and alleviate the symptoms of cancellation.
   • Consultations: Consultations can help you develop strategies for combating smoking and cope with stress.

2. Avoid passive smoking: Passive smoking is also harmful to the health of the heart. Try to avoid places where they smoke.

   • Passive smoking protection: Ask your friends and your family not to smoke in your house and car. Avoid visiting places where smoking is allowed.

E. Stress management:

1. Relaxation techniques: Chronic stress can increase blood pressure and increase the risk of CVD. Use relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing or listening to music to reduce stress.

   • Meditation: Meditation helps to calm the mind and reduce the level of stress.
   • Yoga: Yoga combines physical exercises, breathing exercises and meditation.
   • Deep breath: Deep breathing helps to reduce blood pressure and calm the nervous system.
   • Listening to music: Listening to soothing music helps to relax and reduce stress.

2. Social support: Spend time with friends and family to get social support and reduce the feeling of loneliness and isolation.

   • Communication: Communication with friends and family helps to improve mood and reduce stress.

3. Hobbies and interests: Make your favorite hobbies and interests to get distracted from stress and enjoy.

   • Hobbies: The classes that you like help to relax and enjoy.

4. Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can increase blood pressure and increase the risk of CVD. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

   • Sleep hygiene: Observe sleep mode, avoid using caffeine and alcohol before bedtime and create a comfortable sleeping atmosphere.

III. Regular medical examinations and screening:

Regular medical examinations and screening allow you to identify the risk factors of the SVD and begin treatment in the early stages.

A. Measurement of blood pressure:

Regularly measure blood pressure and control it if it is increased. The target level of blood pressure should be lower than 130/80 mm Hg. Art.

• Measurement of blood pressure at home: The measurement of blood pressure at home can help identify hypertension and control the effectiveness of treatment.
• Recommendations for measuring blood pressure at home:
  • Measure blood pressure at the same time every day.
  • Do not eat, do not drink caffeine and do not smoke 30 minutes before measurement.
  • Sit comfortably, leaning your back on the back of the chair.
  • Place the cuff on a bare hand at the level of the heart.
  • Make two measurements with an interval of 1-2 minutes and write down the results.

B. Blood test for cholesterol:

Pass the blood test for cholesterol regularly to evaluate the level of LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Target levels of cholesterol depend on the individual risk of the development of the SVD.

• Lipidogram: Lipidogram is a blood test that measures the level of LDL, HDL and triglycerides.
• Recommendations for preparation for the lipidogram:
  • Do not eat anything 9-12 hours before the analysis.
  • Tell the doctor about all the medicines that you take.

C. Screening for diabetes:

Pass the diabetes regularly, especially if you have risk factors, such as overweight, a family history of diabetes or high blood pressure.

• Blood test for glucose: A blood test for glucose is a simple and effective way to screening for diabetes.
• Glycated hemoglobin (HBA1C): HBA1C is a blood test that shows the average blood sugar in the last 2-3 months.

D. Electrocardiogram (ECG):

The ECG can help identify heart rhythm disturbances and other heart problems.

• Indications for ECG: The ECG can be prescribed for pain in the chest, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting or other symptoms that may indicate heart problems.

E. Echocardiography (UZI Surdza):

Echocardiography allows you to visualize the heart and evaluate its function.

• Indications for echocardiography: Echocardiography can be prescribed to assess the structure and function of the heart, identify heart defects, assess the state of heart valves and diagnose heart failure.

F. Consultations with a doctor:

Consult a doctor regularly to discuss your SSZ risk factors, get recommendations on a change in lifestyle and, if necessary, begin drug therapy.

• The importance of preventive examinations: Preventive examinations make it possible to identify the risk factors of the SVD and begin treatment in the early stages.

IV. Drug therapy:

In some cases, a change in lifestyle is not enough to control the risk factors of the SVD, and drug therapy may be required.

A. Statins:

Statins are drugs that reduce the level of LDL (“bad” cholesterol) in the blood. Statins are one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

• The mechanism of action of statins: Statins block the enzyme in the liver, which is used for cholesterol.
• Side effects of statins: Side effects of statins may include muscle pain, weakness and increasing the level of liver enzymes.

B. Antihypertensive drugs:

Antihypertensive drugs help reduce blood pressure. There are several classes of antihypertensive drugs, including diuretics, ACE, sconces, beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers