Heart health changes as people age, and those 65 and older are more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack or stroke or to develop coronary heart disease and heart failure. Aging can cause changes in the blood vessels, making the heart less capable of beating quickly during physical activity or times of stress. The heart’s valves may become thicker and stiffer, limiting the blood flow out of the heart. Symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, shortness of breath, and swelling must be reported immediately to a doctor. Remember that regular checkups are vital in diagnosing heart disease because symptoms in the early stages may be barely noticeable. Patients may be referred to a cardiologist by their physicians.
As the heart ages, it becomes less able to respond rapidly to chemical messages from the brain. Researchers do not know exactly why the heart does not respond as fast to messages to speed up and adjust to increased activity. The result is the body cannot exercise as long or as intensely as before.
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P.S. To maintain a healthy heart, it is smart to have your blood pressure checked regularly.