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‘Heart Disease’ is an umbrella term encompassing several cardiac disorders that can adversely impact the functionality of the organ. The risk of heart disease relies largely on exposure to risk factors, one of them being age. Due to this reason, senior citizens are at a higher risk of getting heart disease when compared to younger people. It is higher for people between the ages of 65-70 and reaches its peak for people aged 80 and above.
Internists, also known as doctors of internal medicine, play a key role in caring for older adults with heart disease. They help with early diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle guidance so patients can manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
For early diagnosis of heart disease, expert case and advanced treatments, consult a top Internal Medicine Specialist in Kolkata, at The Manipal Hospitals, Saltlake.
Synopsis
Possible Causes behind Heart Disease
Manifestation of diseases usually happens due to certain causes. We know infectious diseases are caused when viruses, bacteria, fungi or other pathogens get into our body and create adverse effects. However, heart disease is a non-infectious disease, and its manifestation happens due to exposure to certain risk factors.
Some common causes behind heart disease are:
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Diabetes and/or High Blood Pressure: Both can damage blood vessels and strain the heart over time
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High Cholesterol Levels: Lead to plaque build-up in arteries and narrow them, reducing blood flow
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Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle: Excess weight increases the heart’s workload, while inactivity weakens cardiovascular health
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Smoking, Heavy Consumption of Alcohol, and Drug Use: These can damage blood vessels, raise blood pressure, and disrupt heart rhythms
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Infections: Some infections, such as dengue, influenza, coronavirus and mycoplasma, can affect the heart muscle, leading to a condition called viral myocarditis. This can cause complications even in healthy hearts, and the risks are significantly higher in older adults
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High Stress Levels: Chronic stress triggers hormones that can raise blood pressure and heart rate
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Poor Sleep Habits: Sleep deprivation can increase the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes
There are some case-specific instances, like:
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Genetic mutations: Inherited conditions can affect heart structure and function, increasing disease risk
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Infections of the heart: Conditions like endocarditis, myocarditis, or pericarditis can weaken the heart muscle or damage its valves
Types of Heart Disease and Their Symptoms
Different types of heart disease come with different symptoms, and some are briefly discussed below:
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Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): occurs due to blockage or narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup. Symptoms can be chest pain, nausea, dizziness or shortness of breath.
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Arrhythmia: irregularity in the heart rhythm, causing it to pump slower or faster than normal. Symptoms can be heart palpitations, weakness, dizziness and difficulty breathing.
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Heart Failure: It is the ultimate result of heart disease or other medical conditions that can give rise to heart disease. Its symptoms are usually chest pain, irregular heartbeats, dizziness, or even fainting. Heart failure can be fatal if it is not treated as soon as possible.
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Congenital Heart Disease or CHD: the anomalies found in the structure of the heart are present at the time of birth, mainly due to improper development during the fetal stage. Some get resolved on their own, but others may require surgery.
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Valvular Heart Disease: the type of heart disease where any of the four valves of the heart are affected by stenosis (narrowing), regurgitation (leakage) or atresia (complete blockage), likely resulting in cardiac arrest.
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Cardiomyopathy: A Condition that weakens the heart muscle and makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood. Its symptoms are arrhythmia, swelling in hands and feet, shortness of breath and lightheadedness.
Heart Disease in Senior Citizens
Ageing naturally changes the heart. The heart muscle can become stiffer and weaker; this results in slowing down the blood flow.
Older adults may also have other long-term health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure. These conditions damage blood vessels and strain the heart. Obesity, inactivity, and high cholesterol make matters worse by increasing the risk of blocked arteries.
According to studies, heart problems have become more common from the age of 65 onwards. This is why prevention, early detection, and lifestyle changes are crucial for senior citizens.
The Role of Internists in Helping Senior Patients with Heart Disease
Internists are doctors of internal medicine, and they play an important role in helping their senior patients get the proper diagnosis and treatment for heart disease, while also helping them manage such conditions.
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Diagnosis: Internists would prescribe screening tests, like X-ray, ECG or electrocardiography, and even blood tests, to check for symptoms of heart disease or other medical issues.
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Treatment: In case of confirmed heart disease, internists would prescribe medications or rehabilitation programs for treatment. Otherwise, they could also provide references to cardiologists for more specialised treatment.
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Management: as management of heart disease largely depends on forming healthier habits, internists would also encourage their patients to adopt healthy lifestyle habits for more sustainable heart disease management.
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Conclusion
Internists adopt a holistic approach in treating patients that goes beyond strict professionalism. They make dedicated efforts towards their patients to help them feel safe and reassured, to encourage them to adopt healthy lifestyle habits for easier disease management. At Manipal Hospital Salt Lake, the Department of Internal Medicine offers in-depth analysis, precise diagnosis and comprehensive treatment with the right care for all geriatric issues. We also provide specialised Health Check packages for senior citizens, ensuring timely detection and personalised care for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
FAQ's
Yes, young people can get heart disease, but the risk is significantly higher in senior citizens due to age-related changes, high blood pressure, diabetes, and lifestyle factors. Regular check-ups help detect early signs of heart disease in adults.
No, chest pain does not always mean heart disease. Chest pain can result from conditions like lung infection (Pneumonia), acid reflux, muscle strain or even panic attacks. However, since chest discomfort is also one of the early signs of heart trouble, it should never be ignored.
You should see a doctor immediately if you experience acute chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath or dizziness. These symptoms of heart disease may signal an emergency, especially among senior citizens with existing health risks.
Women may experience some uncommon symptoms like jaw or shoulder ache, weakness or indigestion. These symptoms may often be overlooked. However, timely diagnosis and awareness are crucial for preventing complications.
Yes, with proper medication, regular monitoring, and healthy lifestyle habits, many people can manage heart disease effectively. Senior citizens can live a fulfilling life by staying active, eating heart-healthy foods, and attending regular health check-ups.
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