As heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States, experts are urging adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s to pay closer attention to subtle changes in their health. While heart attacks are most commonly associated with people 65 and older, rising cases among those under 45 make it clear that age alone isn’t always a safeguard.
Dr. Hannah Rosenblum, a cardiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, is warning individuals in this age group to monitor potential warning signs of heart disease and make healthier lifestyle choices to mitigate their risk.
Exercise Difficulties: A Red Flag for Heart Disease
One key indicator to watch out for is any change in exercise tolerance. If you’re typically active, but start to experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest pain during your regular workout, it could signal heart problems. “If you usually run 3 miles but notice you are suddenly out of breath or feeling pain in your chest, it’s time to see a cardiologist,” says Dr. Rosenblum.
Exercise plays an essential role in cardiovascular health, strengthening the heart, improving blood flow, and lowering cholesterol. Experts recommend that adults aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week to maintain heart health and prevent heart disease.
The Dangers of Diet and Habits
Along with exercise, maintaining a heart-healthy diet is vital. Reducing intake of fats, sugars, and salt is a good start. Dr. Rosenblum also warns against habits that can heighten heart disease risks, such as smoking. Smokers are nearly twice as likely to experience a heart attack compared to nonsmokers.
In addition to dietary and lifestyle changes, regular checkups are crucial. Routine screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes can help catch early signs of heart disease, even in individuals who don’t yet show symptoms.
Heart Disease Risks for Women
For women, age-related risk factors take on a different dimension. Dr. Rosenblum points out that heart disease risk for women can shift significantly during menopause, with hormone changes affecting blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It’s especially important for women in their 40s and 50s to get these health markers checked regularly. Additionally, conditions like anxiety, depression, and pregnancy complications can increase a woman’s likelihood of developing heart disease.
Know Your Family History
If you have a family history of early heart disease—such as a heart attack before the age of 55 in men or 65 in women—Dr. Rosenblum advises consulting a cardiologist for advanced screening and preventative care.
Despite the typical symptoms of a heart attack—like chest pain—many people experience atypical signs such as tooth pain, nausea, indigestion, sweating, or fatigue. In some cases, individuals may not show any symptoms at all, leading to what’s known as a “silent” heart attack.
With nearly 45% of women over 20 living with some form of cardiovascular disease, it’s vital to take proactive steps in safeguarding heart health. Regular check-ups, a heart-healthy lifestyle, and awareness of early warning signs are essential for protecting yourself against heart disease as you age.
Source: New York Post
