Heart health is an important topic that cannot be ignored in our daily lives. As a vital organ of the human body, the functional status of the heart directly affects our overall health. Interestingly, the health of the heart can often be indirectly reflected through our facial manifestations. Today, I'd like to explore with you three specific symptoms of the face that can be warning signs of heart problems. At the same time, I would also emphasize the importance of routine blood tests in maintaining heart health.
First, let's talk about the three facial symptoms that may indicate heart problems. These changes in the face, while they may seem insignificant, are actually outward manifestations of changes in the body and deserve our close attention.
Changes in complexion: Unusual changes in complexion, such as paleness or unusual flushing, can be an early sign of heart discomfort. Pallor can mean poor circulation, while flushing can be a sign of high blood pressure, which is closely linked to heart disease.
Eye symptoms: Swelling around the eyes or bleeding from the fundus may be a sign of impaired heart function. These changes in the eyes reflect the body's blood circulation.
Changes in lip color: If your lips are abnormally colored, such as becoming duller or purple, it may be due to a decrease in the amount of oxygen in your blood, which is also a sign of poor heart function.
In addition to focusing on facial symptoms, we need to recognize the importance of routine blood tests in monitoring heart health. Routine blood tests can provide a variety of important information about the number of blood cells, hemoglobin levels, and much more, which can help us assess the health of our heart. For example, low hemoglobin levels may indicate anemia, which in turn puts a strain on the heart.
By keeping an eye on these facial symptoms, combined with regular blood checks, we can better monitor and maintain our heart health. Of course, if you find that you have the above symptoms, or the results of the blood routine test are abnormal, it is important to consult a doctor in time for professional diagnosis and treatment.
Cardiovascular doctors remind: People who have the following 5 characteristics on their faces are likely to have heart disease and need to prevent myocardial infarction.
Altered hairline: If you notice that your hairline recedes significantly for a short period of time, or if you develop alopecia areata, this could be an early sign of compromised heart health. In face-to-face consultation, changes in the hairline are often regarded as early warning signs of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
Unusual toothache: As the saying goes, "a toothache is not a disease, it hurts really badly", and the "cardiac toothache" here is a warning of heart problems. Pain caused by heart disease may radiate to the teeth and appear as intense and uncertain pain that may not be relieved by conventional pain medications.
Abnormal changes in the mountain roots: The mountain roots, the area of the nose bridge between the corners of the eyes, are also key areas of the face that reflect the condition of the heart. Striations, red spots, or patches on the roots of the mountain may indicate heart conditions such as irregular heartbeat, atrial fibrillation, or angina.
Change in the color of the tongue: A pale tongue can be a sign of insufficient blood supply to the heart. This condition is often accompanied by chest tightness and shortness of breath and can be a sign of anemia-type heart disease. As symptoms worsen, it may indicate a risk of coronary heart disease and arteriosclerosis.
Ear wrinkles: In people over the age of 45, horizontal lines on the earlobes (coronary grooves) are a sign that cannot be ignored. Such wrinkles are often associated with aging, decreased heart function, and may be a precursor to hardening of the arteries.
How can I prevent heart disease?
A nutritious and balanced diet: A balanced diet is the cornerstone of maintaining heart health. We should reduce our consumption of foods high in fat, cholesterol, salt and sugar and instead increase our intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and high-quality protein. Such dietary Xi can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Active Xi: Maintaining a healthy weight is essential. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling, is recommended per week. At the same time, quitting smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation are equally important for heart health.
Blood pressure management: Checking your blood pressure regularly and keeping it within the normal range is key to preventing cardiovascular disease. Adjust your diet, increase physical activity, reduce salt intake, and take antihypertensive medications as directed if necessary.
Lipid balance: Check your blood lipids regularly to make sure your cholesterol and triglycerides are at healthy levels. Improve your diet, increase physical activity, quit smoking, and take lipid-regulating medications if necessary.
Blood sugar control: For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, blood sugar control is crucial. Follow your doctor's instructions, take steps to keep your blood sugar stable, and get tested regularly.
Stress reduction: Xi and practicing effective stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation or attending counseling, can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Regular check-ups: Regular and comprehensive check-ups, including heart health assessments and related blood tests, can help identify and treat potential heart problems early.