The formation of plaque in arteries narrows and hardens them. Now Atherosclerosis has a lot of complications. It includes heart attacks and strokes. Secondly, they increase with age. You need to understand the link between atherosclerosis and aging. Then you would adopt healthy practices. They may improve cardiovascular health and quality of life in old age. So, this article discusses atherosclerosis and aging and offers healthy aging advice.
Atherosclerosis and Age: A Connection
Aging naturally affects the cardiovascular system, particularly blood vessels. In brief, Atherosclerosis is more common in elderly people for numerous reasons:
Plaque Buildup
High cholesterol, inflammation, oxidative stress, and high blood pressure cause arterial plaque to build up.
Reduced Elasticity
With aging, arteries stiffen and lose their ability to expand and contract. Therefore, this alteration may raise blood pressure.
Hormones Change
Postmenopausal women’s lower estrogen levels may affect lipid metabolism and cause atherosclerosis.
Chronic inflammation
Chronic inflammation rises with age. Inflammation in artery walls promotes plaque growth.
Factors genetic
Age may increase genetic vulnerability to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Healthy Aging and Atherosclerosis Prevention Tips
While aging is inevitable, a heart-healthy lifestyle may reduce atherosclerosis risk and consequences. Therefore, here are the practical cardiovascular health and aging tips:
Heart-Healthy Diet:
Cut down on saturated and trans fats, sweets, and salt.
Portion control prevents overeating and maintains a healthy weight.
Blood Pressure Control:
Follow your doctor’s high blood pressure management advice and test your blood pressure regularly.
Reduce blood pressure by eating less salt and drinking less.
Manage Cholesterol:
Check your cholesterol readings periodically and discuss medication with your doctor to treat high cholesterol.
Also, oats and legumes are high in soluble fiber, which lowers LDL cholesterol.
Aim to stop smoking as soon as feasible. Smoking increases atherosclerosis and heart disease risk.
Medical specialists or smoking cessation programs may help you stop.
Manage Stress:
Practice meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness to reduce stress.
Stay sociable and have help to manage stress.
Keep thinking:
Read, solve puzzles, and acquire new skills to engage your mind.
Additionally, socialize to preserve mental and emotional health.
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night to promote overall health and well-being.
A peaceful evening ritual and limited screen time before bed might enhance sleep.
Regular checkups:
To monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, see your doctor regularly.
Discuss concerns or symptoms with your doctor immediately.
Proper medication management requires following your healthcare provider’s advised treatment plan for certain medical problems or drugs.
Stay up-to-date with recommended vaccines, such as flu and pneumonia, to lower the risk of illnesses that influence cardiovascular health.
Monitor Genetics:
Tell your doctor about your family history of heart disease. Genetics affect risk.
Conclusion
Finally, untreated atherosclerosis is a frequent age-related illness. It may harm health. However, a heart-healthy lifestyle and preventative steps are essential. They may improve cardiovascular health and aging. So, a healthy diet, regular exercise and a solid support system may lower the risk of atherosclerosis and improve quality of life as people age. Therefore, remember that you may start improving your heart health at any age.
