Signs of Heart Failure and Benefits of In Home Senior Care
February is known as American Heart Month and is a great time to take note of healthy and not-so-healthy habits that we may need to change to reduce the risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the main cause of death for men and women in the United States. A common sign of heart failure includes chest pain with tightening which can feel very intense. Adults over the age of 65 should be made aware of other signs of heart failure as well.
Signs of heart failure include nausea or lack of appetite, dizziness, fatigue, and persistent cough. Problems thinking, swelling in the ankles, confusion and a rapid pulse can also signal impending heart failure as well. Women should look for a burning feeling in the chest. Both men and women can experience anxiety and chest discomfort including pressure, squeezing, and fullness in the breastbone area. A rapid pulse can lead to heart failure if accompanied by weakness, dizziness and shortness of breath.
There are some signs of heart failure that differ between men and women. Women are more likely to experience symptoms while resting or even while they are asleep. Mental stress is also a common trigger for women. Mental stress and depression can cause more trouble on a woman’s heart than it would for a man. Depression can make it difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle which can be detrimental to heart health.
There are some very effective ways to prevent heart failure and reduce the risk of heart disease. One very important and quick head start to a healthier heart is to put out the last cigarette. Women, especially, can benefit from quitting smoking as it is harder on the heart than for a man. The minute a person quits smoking, the risk for heart disease is dramatically reduced. Try to incorporate exercise regularly and squeeze in at least thirty minutes of activity a day, or at least a few times a week. Walking in local parks or inside a shopping center in Lafayette is a healthy dose of exercise. Choose more wholesome foods and aim for more vegetables while limiting fatty meats and salty foods.
Taking care of the heart does not only mean exercise and eating right. Take the time to participate in a favorite activity. Chat with a friend or family member or read a good book. Taking the time to do the things we love most is helpful for reducing stress which is very beneficial for the heart.
The helpful caregivers of Senior Helpers of Lafayette can provide compassionate care throughout the week for an elderly loved one when work life makes visiting often difficult. Just having someone to visit with on a regular basis is sure to lift an elderly loved one’s spirts.
If you would like to learn more about the many benefits of caring and consistent in home elderly care and professional dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to a senior care specialist today (337) 269-5030! Senior Helpers of Lafayette provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, companionship, personal assistance, and so much more to all areas of Lafayette, Louisiana. We also provide services in Vermillion, Iberia, St. Landry, St. Martin, Acadia, Jefferson Davis, and St. Mary parishes..