We’re halfway through this year’s American Heart Health month! American Heart Month was created to encourage us all to learn about how to spot, prevent, and address heart problems. The elderly are at higher risk of contracting heart disease, and particularly during the increased isolation and stress of COVID, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms that lead to heart health issues.
Clear Care put together the list below for caregivers of the elderly during heart health month. Keep an eye out for these symptoms in your loved ones and patients, and consider scheduling a doctor’s appointment, or further action if more severe symptoms appear.
Signs It Is Time to Schedule a Doctor’s Appointment
Many heart conditions can be managed with regular treatment or lifestyle changes. These conditions often present with mild symptoms. Seniors should schedule an appointment with their primary physician or cardiologist if they experience symptoms of heart disease like:
- Fluttering in the chest
- Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- High or low blood pressure
- Lightheadedness
- Ongoing fatigue
- Dizziness, fainting, or near fainting
- Difficulty breathing after exercise
- Lower body swelling
Symptoms That Need Immediate Medical Attention
Emergency treatment should be sought for signs of heart attack and/or stroke, such as:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Upper body pain in the jaw, neck, back or arms
- Difficulty breathing
- Sweating
- Vomiting and/or nausea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Facial drooping
- Slurred speech
- Unconsciousness/fainting
- Anxiety
- Heart palpitations
- Fatigue
- Numbness
- Impaired vision
There are lifestyle adjustments we can all make to ensure we keep our hearts healthy. Eat healthily, get lots of rest, keep your stress levels low (if possible!), and make sure to schedule regular checkups for your elderly parents, and yourself!
As always, Abundant Home Health Care is here to support you and your family. We offer in-home care with personal support, and can make sure that your loved ones are taken care of and taking the right steps to keep their hearts healthy! Reach out to us today if you’d like to learn more.