A sudden stroke shattered Uncle Zhang's peaceful retirement. This is not only Uncle Zhang's story, but also a reality faced by many older people. Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, like a ** bomb, threaten our health at all times, especially in old age. Why do some people live a long and healthy life, while others suffer from cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases? The answer may lie in the all-important regular check-ups that we overlook.
Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, as geriatric health"Killers", in fact, it is not without a trace. Such diseases mainly include coronary artery disease (commonly known as coronary heart disease), stroke (commonly known as stroke), hypertensive heart disease, etc. Crucially, these diseases are often associated with long-term accumulation of unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as a high-salt, high-fat diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Coronary heart disease may lead to angina pectoris and myocardial infarction; Stroke can lead to speech impairment, hemiplegia, and even life-threatening. As a "latent person", although the symptoms are not obvious, long-term hypertension can cause damage to the heart, brain, kidneys and other organs, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential for the prevention and control of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Fluctuations in blood pressure levels have a direct impact on cardiovascular health. Blood pressure measurement can detect abnormal blood pressure early and prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Dyslipidemia is an important risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Through blood lipid testing, cholesterol, triglycerides and other indicators can be found in time, which helps prevent atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) is an important means of measuring the electrical activity of the heart. It can help doctors detect problems such as irregular heartbeat and myocardial ischemia early, and is of great value for the prevention of heart diseases.
Carotid ultrasonography is an important tool to assess the condition of the cerebrovascular system. Through this test, doctors can understand the thickness of the blood vessel walls and blood flow in the carotid arteries, and detect signs of arteriosclerosis or stenosis in time to prevent stroke.
Eat whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes and nuts in moderation and reduce your intake of red meat, processed foods and foods high in salt. Optimizing vegetable oils, limiting animal fats, and reducing the intake of saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids will help reduce blood lipid levels and reduce the burden on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular vessels. Adequate daily hydration can help maintain blood flow and prevent thrombosis.
At least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling, strengthens the heart and lungs and improves blood circulation. At least twice a week, such as squats and weights, can help boost metabolism, control weight, and reduce stress in the heart and brain. For example, yoga and tai chi can improve the flexibility of the body, reduce the rigidity of blood vessels, and prevent blood vessel damage.
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are important risk factors for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and quitting smoking and moderate alcohol consumption are essential for the prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. 7-8 hours of high-quality sleep per night helps regulate the body's metabolism and reduce the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Relieve stress through meditation, listening**, communicating with family and friends, etc., which is beneficial to heart and brain health.
Measure your blood pressure regularly, monitor your weight changes, and keep an eye out for any abnormal signs in your body. Conduct a professional cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health examination once a year, including blood lipids, blood glucose tests and electrocardiograms, etc., to detect problems early and intervene in time.
Through the above lifestyle adjustments and suggestions, every elderly person can add a guarantee to their mental and brain health. Remember, every small choice in your life can be an important step in your health. Let's make smart choices from now on for the sake of a healthy mind and brain.