We have all heard the familiar things we should do for our heart health: Eat a healthy diet, exercise, watch your weight, manage your stress levels, get at least 7 hours a night, stop smoking, and see your doctor regularly. But there are other things you may not be aware of (such as living near noisy roads and health reports suggesting that crinkled ear lobes can help identify people who may be a risk before cholesterol tests or blood pressure screenings.) In addition, there is evidence that inflammation of your gums (periodontal disease) can also influence plaque development in the walls of your arteries.
Here are some scenarios that research suggest may contribute to poor heart health:
Extreme Weather: Especially in areas of heavy snowfalls. We've all heard of people having heart attacks shoveling snow. But it's not just the snow. Extreme cold and hot days can contribute to elevated stress and the inability of our bodies to deal with these extremes, especially as we grow older.
Grip Strength: Studies indicate a connection between grip strength and cardiovascular risk. Grip strength is a stronger predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality than systolic blood pressure, according to a 2015 study in "The Lancet." It's one of the reasons grip strength is part of some wellness programs.
The Flu: Influenza does more than make us miserable. The flu, with other factors, may contribute to a heart attack. In addition, severe respiratory illnesses, including the flu, put undue stress on our hearts.
Where You Live: While much of America is in the grips of an obesity epidemic, which increases the risk of heart disease, some impoverished areas may turn to "fast foods" or high-fat foods. Additionally, the higher you live in altitude suggests lower risk.
If you see your doctor regularly, they can tell you what risks may apply and how to mitigate them. Because mitigating the pronounced risks are more important for heart health than having smooth ear lobes.
By Sharon Groves
Sharon Groves covers health, wellness, and lifestyle topics for the ARA newsletter, helping readers make informed decisions about their wellbeing in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
Sharon brings up some fascinating connections that most people don't think about. Here in Arizona, that extreme weather point really hits home. Our summer temperatures regularly exceed 115 degrees, and that kind of heat stress can be dangerous for anyone with existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors. The American Heart Association recommends staying indoors during peak heat hours and making sure you're getting your annual flu vaccination, which Medicare Part B covers at 100%.
That grip strength test is something a lot of people ask me about during Medicare Annual Open Enrollment when they're looking at wellness programs. Many Medicare Advantage plans now include fitness benefits that can help you maintain muscle strength and cardiovascular health. If you're wondering "what Medicare benefits can help me stay healthy," it's worth checking if your plan covers gym memberships, fitness classes, or even home fitness equipment.
The bottom line is that heart health affects everything else in retirement, including your healthcare costs and quality of life. A little attention to these hidden risk factors today can make a big difference tomorrow.