Health heart tips for senior citizens

Heart Diseases

Hearth disease is a leading cause of death in the world. One of the most common heart problems is damage of the coronary arteries. Some of the heart diseases include the arrhythmia, hypertension, arteriosclerosis and angina. Heart diseases can lead to heart attack which is a condition when you heart is not supplied with enough blood due to a blood clot or any obstruction of the blood flow. The symptoms of heart attack include pain or tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, excessive perspiration, dizziness and nausea. Pain in the chest can be severe and it can spread to the shoulders and arms. You may also feel pressure or heaviness in your chest.

Prevention

It is very important to have healthy lifestyle habits in order to reduce the risk of any heart disease. This particularly refers to senior citizens because with aging blood vessels and arteries deteriorate. You should quit smoking and also try to avoid second hand smoking as well. You should be physically active but make sure you do not exhaust yourself. Keep your weight normal with moderate exercises and healthy diet. Visit your doctor on a regular basis in order to check your blood pressure and cholesterol level. This may be the most affective prevention measure because high blood pressure and high cholesterol level are often without symptoms, but both of them can jeopardize your health.

Diet

Proper nutrition and healthy diet can prolong your life and save you from heart diseases. You should eat plenty of fresh fruits because you need vitamins. Also eat a lot of vegetables, especially spinach, carrots, broccoli and yams in order to supply your body with antioxidants. Whole grains, fish and low-fat milk products are also recommended. Drink plenty of water as well. Avoid processed food, coffee and alcohol.

Exercises

Physical activity is very important for senior citizens. Exercising will keep your muscles strong and flexible, but be careful not to injure yourself. Exercising will also improve your metabolism and digestion, help you lose weight, you will sleep better after exercising, and you will feel young and happy. You can walk or jog in the fresh air, or you can swim or cycle, or do exercises in the local gym or do aerobics. You may also try yoga, thai chi or some relaxation technique as well. It is recommended to have some company while you do any of these exercises because you will have more fun. Whatever you decide, consult with your doctor first.