You may be at risk for forms of silent heart disease, like atherosclerosis, without feeling obvious or expected symptoms. Find out how to protect yourself.
By Vanessa Caceres Medically Reviewed by Farrokh Sohrabi, MD
Not all forms of heart disease are obvious. You could have plaque in your arteries or an enlarged heart and not even know it; even heart attacks could be mistaken for bad indigestion. This lack of awareness puts those with so-called hidden heart disease, or heart disease that has no symptoms, at greater risk for serious health problems and death. It's important to be aware of the possibility of heart disease — even in young people. By learning about different kinds of hidden heart disease, you can help control your risk and protect yourself.
1. Hidden Heart Disease: Silent Heart Attack
Many people imagine a heart attack as someone clutching his chest and grimacing from the extreme pain, but that’s not always the case. “Some people may think it’s just awful indigestion,” said Tracy L. Stevens, MD, a cardiologist at Saint Luke’s Health System in Kansas City and a national physician spokeswoman for the American Heart Association. “Or they may feel a pain between their shoulder blades and go to a chiropractor to get their back popped when they really felt a heart attack.”
Dr. Stevens believes that health care providers as a whole do not always identify “silent” heart attacks because they tend to focus only on asking about previous chest pain. “Patients don’t recognize the other symptoms from a heart attack,” she said. In particular, people with diabetes are less likely to feel heart attack symptoms, she added.
2. Hidden Heart Disease: Atherosclerosis Without Symptoms
It’s often not until someone dies of a heart problem and an autopsy is performed that physicians find severe coronary disease and artery blockages, said Hugh Calkins, MD, an electrophysiologist and professor of cardiology and medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore and president-elect of the Heart Rhythm Society.
Although cardiologists say it’s hard to pinpoint the number of people at risk for a silent heart attack, a study published in the medical journal JAMA found that a large number of older people were not being treated for their increased heart attack risk even though they had related risk factors such as atherosclerosis, or plaque-thickened arteries.
Atherosclerosis isn't a condition that affects only seniors — younger people can develop
these cholesterol-based deposits too. To assess your risk, try a simple test called the waist-to-hip ratio: If your waist measurement matches your hip measurement, this indicates an increased risk for atherosclerosis. Researchers have recognized this risk even in young people who appeared otherwise healthy.
A second measurement can also tip you off to heart disease risk, said Stevens. Measure your waist one inch above your belly button. To help lower your risk for high cholesterol, diabetes, and other heart disease risk factors, that measurement should be half or less of your height (in inches). So if you’re 5-foot-4, or 64 inches tall, your waist would optimally measure 32 inches or less.
Talk with your health care provider for help losing weight if you don’t pass these "tests."
3. Hidden Heart Disease: Undetected Weak Heart
Cardiomyopathy is a weakened heart muscle. Steven said it often doesn't cause symptoms until it's severe. Cardiomyopathy is frequently found by accident; for example, a patient with a bad respiratory infection may have a chest X-ray that happens to show an enlarged heart.
One cause of cardiomyopathy is uncontrolled high blood pressure. Other causes include diabetes and a family history, said Christine E. Lawless, MD, co-chair of the American College of Cardiology Sports and Exercise Cardiology council and director of cardiac athletic research at Bryan Heart Athlete Care at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. A person with cardiomyopathy may not feel symptoms because the heart works harder to compensate for the problem, said Stevens. Undetected, cardiomyopathy may lead to cardiac arrest and even death.
Uncovering Silent Heart Disease
You can make some changes to lower your risk for hidden heart disease, but it requires having healthier habits. “Many people take better care of their car than their bodies,” said Dr. Calkins. The first step is to get regular checkups with a physician. By age 50, Calkins said, this should be an annual visit.
When you go for a checkup, have your blood pressure and cholesterol checked — high readings can put you at a higher risk for heart problems, Calkins added.
Also, consider getting heart-related screenings, such as echocardiography, an ultrasound of the heart, or a stress test, at health fairs in your area, said Dr. Lawless, adding that a number of patients she has treated were tipped off to heart disease this way. Though regular heart screenings starting at age 50 is the general rule, she suggested starting at age 40 if you have related risk factors.
A proud grand-poppa G.
Diabetic foot care is always important, but winter can make keeping your feet healthy an even bigger challenge, considering the health threats like numbness and decreased circulation. "Winter moisture, cold, and dryness increase the risk of a diabetes foot problem," says Michael Shlonsky, DPM, a foot specialist at the Cleveland Clinic. About 15 to 20 percent of people with diabetes end up in the hospital because of a foot ulcer or infection, and in some cases these foot problems can lead to amputation. These tips can help you care for your tootsies.
Inspect Your Feet Every Day:
"Anyone with diabetes needs to have a daily protocol for foot inspection," advises Dr. Shlonsky. Look carefully at all the pressure areas of your feet and between your toes. “Inspect for any breaks in the skin, discharge, changes in color, changes in odor, and painful corns or calluses," he says. "Also inspect your socks for any stains and your shoes for any stones or rough edges." If you have trouble seeing your feet closely, ask a friend or family member to help with your diabetic foot care. Let your doctor know about any changes you find.
Pick the Right Footwear:
When you have diabetes, winter cold and dampness combined with decreased circulation can increase your risk for a foot ulcer. Make sure winter shoes and boots provide warmth, protection from snow and ice, and proper padding, and that they are roomy enough not to constrict blood flow to your feet. Avoid man-made shoe or boot materials that lock in moisture, and don't forget about choosing the right socks: "Wool socks provide protection and warmth," says Shlonsky. "You might also consider polypropylene stockings under your socks to wick away moisture."
Keep Your Feet Dry:
Sloshing through wet snow or icy puddles can lead to dangerously damp feet. Moisture that collects between your socks and your feet and between your toes for too long can invite unwanted bacteria to gather. When your feet get wet from being outside or bathing, you need to dry them carefully and gently. "Inspect your feet for areas that are pale in color, which could mean too much saturation," Shlonsky says. "Make sure to dry carefully and completely, including between your toes." Also, he says, remember to change out of wet socks as soon as possible .
Moisturizing Is a Must:
Diabetes nerve damage and poor circulation can cause decreased function of the moisturizing glands of your feet. "Dry winter heat, like sitting in the car with the heater blasting at your feet, can make dryness worse and lead to skin break-down," says Shlonsky. "Watch out for red, shiny areas when you do your daily inspection." Ask your doctor to recommend a good moisturizer for diabetes foot care, and use it after bathing your feet every day, but avoid leaving too much moisturizer between your toes.
Trim Your Toenails:
Untrimmed or infected toenails are a frequent cause of infections and ulcers. Ask your diabetes doctor how to trim your toenails correctly. You can soak your feet first to soften the nails and then cut them straight across. If you have trouble trimming your nails, get professional help. "Medicare may cover nail care as part of diabetic foot care if you have a history of problems caused by nails," advises Shlonsky. "Nails that are thick, crumbly, or discolored may need professional care."
Don't Burn Your Feet:
Nerve damage in your feet caused by diabetes can make keeping them warm in winter risky. Be careful when using electric blankets, hot soaks, and heating pads or warming your feet on a radiator. Always check water temperature with your hands or a bath thermometer before you stick your feet in. "A second- or third-degree burn can cause a major foot problem,” says Shlonsky. “Let your doctor know about any foot problem as soon as possible. Early treatment is important when you have diabetes."
Control Blood Sugar
Keeping your diabetes under good control is an important part of diabetic foot care. "Your feet absorb a lot of the daily wear and tear of your body," Shlonsky explains. "They are one of the first places poor diabetic control will show up." Work with your doctor to control your sugar and be sure to watch your diet, maintain your weight, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. Your feet will thank you.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 large fennel bulbs—bulbs halved, cored and sliced lengthwise 1/4 inch thick, plus a few fronds for garnish
Salt and freshly ground pepper
4 scallions, cut into 1-inch lengths
1-1/2 teaspoons medium-hot curry powder
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 cup bottled clam juice
4 salmon steaks, about 3/4 inch thick
1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
In a deep 10-inch skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add the fennel and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cover and cook over low heat, stirring, until lightly browned and tender, 20 minutes. Add the scallions, cover and cook until they are just tender, 2 minutes. Transfer to a bowl. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet and add the curry powder. Cook over low heat, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the wine and boil over high heat until reduced by half, about 1 minute. Add the clam juice and boil until reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Cover and remove the skillet from the heat.
Preheat the broiler. Arrange the salmon steaks on a large rimmed baking sheet and season with salt and pepper. Broil about 6 inches from the heat for 3 to 4 minutes, until just opaque throughout.
Meanwhile, scrape the fennel and scallions into the sauce and reheat; stir in the lemon juice. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, until incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the salmon to plates and spoon the sauce on top. Garnish the salmon with fennel fronds and serve.
Mr. Humble sitting in for Witchy , she'll be back soon , hopefully (smiling)
You should be concerned if your blood pressure is going up, but remember that it's possible to lower it with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
By Chris Iliades, MD
Medically Reviewed by Pat F. Bass, III, MD, MPH
It’s a common condition, and it doesn’t have any symptoms: About one out of three U.S. adults has high blood pressure, or hypertension. And nearly one out of three American adults has prehypertension — blood pressure numbers that are higher than normal, but not yet in the high blood pressure range — which raises the risk of developing high blood pressure.
High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease, so it's a serious condition that we all must be more conscious of as we age. African-Americans in particular should pay careful attention to blood pressure: In one year, the overall death rate from high blood pressure was 40 percent for African-American females and 52 percent for African-American males — more than for any other group.
When Does Blood Pressure Become High Blood Pressure?
According to guidelines followed by doctors, blood pressure is normal if it's 120/80 or below. The range of 120/80 to 139/89, which was once classified as normal to high, is now considered to be prehypertensive.
If your blood pressure falls somewhere in the prehypertensive range, it may quickly develop into high blood pressure, or 140/90 or above. Most doctors now recommend lifestyle changes to lower blood pressure for anyone with a reading above 120/80. If you have added risk factors such as being overweight or having high blood sugar or cholesterol, the concern is even greater. Even though you may not have any symptoms, high blood pressure increases your risk for cardiovascular disease. Since cardiovascular disease is the cause of death for one out of every three Americans, any evidence of high blood pressure is cause for concern.
How Can You Lower Your High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure is a treatable condition. Most doctors recommend starting with these lifestyle changes to lower blood pressure:
Stop smoking
Lose weight
Limit alcohol and caffeine
Exercise
Eat a healthy, low-sodium diet
Reduce your stress levels
When lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may prescribe one or more antihypertensive medications. You may need to take blood pressure medication for the rest of your life to keep your condition under control. Remember: Stopping medication on your own can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
How Do You Handle Resistant High Blood Pressure?
What happens if you've made lifestyle changes and you're taking medication, but your blood pressure is still out of control? Doctors call this resistant hypertension. Resistant hypertension occurs in about 20 to 30 percent of people with high blood pressure. Some common causes include:
Uncontrolled risk factors. Poor control of risk factors such as obesity and diabetes can contribute to resistant hypertension.
Not taking medications as directed. Failure to take medication on schedule or stopping medication without a doctor's approval can cause blood pressure to go up.
Alcohol and salt intake. Many people with resistant high blood pressure are not controlling their intake of salt and alcohol.
Effects of other drugs. Over-the-counter pain relievers, decongestants, and some herbal compounds can interfere with blood pressure control.
Other health conditions. Medical conditions such as sleep apnea and diseases of the adrenal glands or kidneys can cause resistant high blood pressure.
If you are having trouble controlling your blood pressure, work with your doctor to find out how you can better manage risk factors. Your doctor may want to perform additional tests to make sure there are no other medical conditions contributing to your high blood pressure.
Do I Really Need Regular Blood Pressure Checkups?
To prevent cardiovascular disease and other possible effects of high blood pressure, it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Blood pressure that was once considered to be high-normal is now cause for concern. If you work with your doctor to find the right combination of lifestyle changes and medication, you will probably be able to control your high blood pressure over time.
A proud grand-poppa G.
With a little creativity, some communication, and an open mind, you can give your sex life a much-earned upgrade.
By Madeline Vann, MPH | Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III MD, MPH
The idea that your sex drive goes AWOL in old age is one big myth: In truth, sex can get even more exciting and stimulating with age. How? You can kiss some of the stresses of your younger years goodbye and focus on rediscovering the sizzle with your spouse.
While age presents some people with sexual challenges (such as erectile dysfunction or decreased libido), these five steps can help all seniors intensify their love life.
Slow things down a notch. It may take you and your partner a little longer to become aroused than it used to. “Staying relaxed and having a flexible attitude is a big help,” says Bob G. Knight, PhD, the Merle H. Bensinger professor of gerontology and professor of psychology at the Andrus Gerontology Center at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, and director of the Tingstad Older Adult Counseling Center.
Make more time for intimacy and be prepared to approach sex differently. What once turned you and your partner on may not have the same effect anymore. Take the time to experiment your way to better sex. “I think of this as a gift to women,” says Joan Price, author of Better Than I Ever Expected: Straight Talk about Sex After Sixty and Naked at Our Age: Talking Out Loud about Senior Sex. “Men are finally interested in foreplay.”
Just spending time touching is a great warm-up for senior sex. Price, 67, began writing about senior sex 10 years ago when she fell in love with a man and, as she describes it, “had great, exhilarating, spicy sex, but it wasn’t like in our twenties, not at all.” She then realized that the overwhelming cultural belief was that senior sex would be dull and painful at best. It’s neither of those, she says, but it is different, in large part because of the physiological changes that come with aging.
Chat about your body’s changes. Whether you need to open up about your changing needs to a lifelong partner or get to know a new one, communication is key. “Talking before, during, and after can lead to more enjoyable experiences and avoid misunderstanding and anxiety,” says Knight. For particularly difficult conversations, such as those related to taking medication for erectile dysfunction or addressing a need to overcome low libido, he advises picking a time when you feel close and relaxed, but not when sex is imminent. Being honest about what’s going on and what you hope will be going on — as difficult as speaking these words might be — is the best approach, he says.
Experiment with new positions and toys. Spicy solutions to senior sex problems are guaranteed to be interesting topics of conversation. Just as you may need more time to become aroused, you might also want to try something new. Using sex toys (such as vibrators) and practical aids, such as lubricants, can up the wow factor.
If you find that sex aids top the list of difficult things to talk about, keep this in mind: “If we have slow arousal and arthritic wrists, why not just turn on a tool that does the job really well because that’s what it’s designed for? If we need a little assist, that’s okay,” says Jones. Other new moves may be as simple as a change of position or the addition of some pillows to support achy bones.
Explore on your own. Don’t have a partner? Masturbation has been shown to improve both physical and emotional health, so don’t let being alone keep you from getting pleasure. “When suitable partners are not available, self-stimulation can be useful and healthy,” says Knight. Take time to discover what pleases you, and be creative — it may even lead to better sex with your partner as you learn about what works best for you. This may also be a good way to try out sex toys before you bring them up in conversation.
Stay healthy. Your body may be changing, but you can improve how it works and feels by making healthy diet and exercise choices. These choices, in turn, can lead to better sex by maintaining muscle strength and aerobic capacity.
One important element of staying healthy? Practice safe sex. Even though you don’t have to worry about unwanted pregnancy, age does not protect men or women from sexually transmitted diseases. Plan on using condoms for sexual intercourse if you and your partner are not in a long-term, monogamous relationship.
With the right attitude and an open mind, sex in your senior years can be exhilarating and spicy indeed. I will bring you health issues from A to Z twice a week . Monday's and Thursdays
A proud Grand-poppa G .
The New Year is a blank page and the pen is in your hand - Write a beautiful story for yourself
Spicy Deviled Eggs
8 large eggs
1 teaspoon prepared mustard
1 tablespoon pickle juice
1/2 cup mayonnaise
salt and pepper
paprika
lettuce (optional)
1 . As always, the key to great cooking is to be prepared and to use quality ingredients.
2 . This recipe works best if you use fresh eggs. Ask you grocery store clerk for the freshest eggs, less than 7 days old.
3 . Place your eggs in a saucepan and cover with at least one inch of cold water. Bring water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook eggs for 8-10 minutes after water begins to boil. Remove from heat and rinse eggs in cold water so that they peel more easily.
3 . Peel the eggs and halve them lengthwise. Remove the yolk, setting egg whites aside. Push yolks through a fine sieve into a small mixing bowl. If you’re without a sieve just mash the yolks well with a spoon or fork.
4 . Combine the yolk mixture together with mayonnaise, prepared mustard and pickle juice to produce a smooth texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste and give one finally mixing.
5 . Using a teaspoon or pastry bag fill egg white halves with mixture. Place egg halves on serving dish, cover with plastic rap. Refrigerate for about 1 hour.
6 . Just before serving, slightly garnish each egg halve with paprika. If desired serve on washed lettuce leaves.
1 . Fried Chicken – this crispy and crunch fried chicken will go good with some collard greens, black-eyed peas, macaroni and cheese.
2 . Barbecue Ribs – we usually cook the fried chicken and also serve the barbecue ribs, because we like having the option of serving two meats. Most folks like the added variety.
3 . Deviled Eggs Appetizer - these delicious appetizers, aka finger foods get passed around and are eaten up in no time.
4 . Collard Greens – prepare and eat the collard greens so that you don’t end up broke. The greens are said to bring you the money.
5 . Black Eyed Peas - it’s tradition to eat the black-eyed peas so that they bring you good luck the entire year.
6 . Macaroni and Cheese – this dish compliments the black-eyed peas, collard greens and is consistently a favorite.
7 . Corn Bread - if you’re eating collard greens you need to have some cornbread and this recipe will work for you.
8 . Banana Pudding – this is one simple recipe you can prepare with all that fuss that normally comes along with preparing a dessert.
9 . Chocolate Pecan Pie - we add chocolate to the traditional pecan pie to put on such a unique spin you will wonder why you didn’t discover this yourself.
Okay it's time for you to get in the kitchen and cook yourself a delicious meal.
Please use the search gadget on the sidebar to see all the recipes .
(Example) Type in fried chicken , it's easy as 1-2-3 .
Happy New Year ... the PICs
