Symptoms of heart disease in older adults differ from those in young adults, although some symptoms can overlap. Older adults with heart disease may experience thickening of capillary walls, a slower heart rate, or an enlarged heart.
Geriatric Cardiology focuses on the cardiovascular health of older adults. As patients get older, they ultimately need more assistance with numerous aspects of their health. Older adults may have chronic conditions that exacerbate symptoms of heart disease. Below we look at why heart disease looks different in older adults.
Why Heart Disease Looks Different in Older Adults
In older adults, heart disease looks different in several ways. Older adults are more likely to experience abnormal rhythms such as atrial fibrillation. Because of these heart changes, electrocardiograms (ECGs) of older adults look different than those of younger adults.
As people age, heart muscle cells degenerate. Regular changes occur with age, including heart murmurs due to stiff valves inside the heart. Older adults can experience stiffer valves, which control blood flow.
Heart disease in older adults can also lead to changes in blood pressure. In fact, the aorta, the main artery of the heart, becomes less flexible due to changes in connective tissue and the thickening of its walls.
Symptoms of Heart Disease in Older Adults
Older individuals suffering from heart disease may experience different symptoms than young adults. More specifically, the symptoms found in older adults consist of:
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Moderate increase in blood pressure
- Increase in blood volume due to a reduction in total body water
- A slower heart rate
- Red blood cells have a slower response to anemia and blood loss
- A slower rate of exchange of nutrients and wastes due to thickened capillary walls
- Increase in the size of the heart
In addition to the heart disease symptoms commonly found in older adults, other symptoms may also be present. According to the National Institute on Aging, some of the symptoms associated with heart disease in all age groups may include the following:
- Chest discomfort
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Cold sweats
- Anxiety
- Heart murmur caused by valve stiffness
- Fainting or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Pain or tingling in limbs, jaw, or neck
- Sudden dizziness
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Blood clots
- Vomiting
Sometimes those with heart disease are unaware or may not recognize symptoms until they have experienced a heart attack. If you experience prolonged chest pain or any of the serious symptoms above, contact 911 immediately.
What Makes Your Heart Work Harder?
The heart may work harder depending on the medication you take, the physical activity you partake in, or any illnesses you have. Per MedlinePlus, although the heart continues to pump enough blood to supply all parts of the body, an older heart may not be able to pump blood as efficiently.
The following can make the heart work harder:
- Stimulants such as caffeine
- Diet
- Emotional stress
- Illness
- Physical exertion
- Certain medications
- Infections
- Injuries
Hearts in older adults may need to work harder due to age, physical inactivity, and certain medications. The stress added to the heart can cause damage to the circulatory system and blood vessels.
Ways to Prevent Heart Disease
For younger and older adults, there are ways to help prevent heart disease. To prevent heart disease, consider monitoring any of the following that apply to you:
- Blood pressure
- Diet
- Cholesterol levels
- Weight
- Smoking or vaping
- Diabetes
For individuals concerned about heart disease, consider incorporating more exercise into their routine to help prevent diabetes and obesity, as well as control blood sugar levels. Additionally, schedule regular check-ups with your doctor.
Learn How to Manage Heart Disease
If you’re suffering from cardiovascular problems, find help right away to determine the seriousness of the issue. Reach out to a heart health clinic, such as the United Heart Institute, so we can help you learn how to manage your symptoms. We offer patient resources and services to help relieve symptoms associated with heart issues.
