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The risk of myocardial infarction increases with age, so seniors are particularly at risk. The immediate cause of an attack is usually atherosclerosis. It is accompanied by characteristic symptoms, but not always. How to recognize a myocardial infarction in a senior?
Myocardial infarction in a senior – causes
As already mentioned, the main cause of myocardial infarction in an elderly person (but not only) is atherosclerosis, which causes the coronary artery to be closed by deposits of cholesterol in its walls. In addition, hypertension is often cited as the cause of an attack, the risk of which also increases with age, as well as diabetes, lack of physical activity and a poorly balanced diet.
- Check also: How to fight hypertension?
Myocardial infarction in a senior – symptoms
The most characteristic symptoms of myocardial infarction not only in seniors but also in the younger ones are:
- sudden chest pain;
- strong weakness;
- characteristic pain spreading over the sternum;
- paleness;
- excessive sweating;
- shortness of breath;
- nausea;
- low-grade fever;
- too fast / too slow heart rate.
We must also not forget about the so-called a mute heart attacknot necessarily accompanied by classic symptoms. This is because other chronic diseases can trigger neuropathy (e.g. in diabetics it will be diabetic neuropathy).
Myocardial infarction in a senior – first aid
In the case of a diagnosis of a myocardial infarction in a senior, an ambulance should be called as soon as possible. Before the doctor arrives, it is worth keeping the patient in a safe position so that they do not choke. You should also loosen tight clothes (unbutton coat, shirt buttons, untie a scarf). It is also worth performing artificial respiration combined with chest compressions until the arrival of the ambulance. In the case of a senior who is alone on a daily basis, it is worth installing an emergency number on the mobile phone under the selected button. The patient may also take aspirin or another drug that contains nitroglycerin.
Also read:
- Coronary artery disease in seniors – how is it manifested and how to treat it?
- Drugs for hypertension – how to choose them and are they effective?
- What is worth knowing about hypertension in seniors?
Myocardial infarction in a senior – treatment
Cardiac rehabilitation is required after myocardial infarction. The attack is seen as a warning signal, so the patient should change his lifestyle. It is very important to lower blood cholesterol, which is helped by a balanced diet (e.g. antiatherosclerotic diet). Regular physical activity will also be recommended.
In order to comprehensively care for the health of the senior, it is worth buying the Panaseus Supplement Kit for senior citizens, which includes the following preparations: Formula for the heart, Falcon’s eyesight and Memory without limits.
Myocardial infarction in a senior – prevention and immediate help
In the case of myocardial infarction in an elderly person, prophylaxis is very important. Daily blood pressure tests and regular medication for chronic diseases – these are just some of the preventive measures that can help prevent an elderly person from having a heart attack. Daily walks, a balanced diet or quitting smoking are also advisable.
It is worth getting a good-quality electronic blood pressure monitor and monitoring the pressure on an ongoing basis.
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