On an ordinary weekend morning, Mr. Zhang, a 72-year-old retired teacher, was playing chess with his grandson. Suddenly, his right hand began to weaken, and the pieces slipped from between his fingers. He tried to speak, but found that the corners of his mouth were crooked and his words were slurred. This is not a simple fatigue, but a silent warning: cerebral infarction. Just a few hours ago, Mr. Zhang was still sharing his retirement life with his friends, how could he, who seemed healthy, suddenly...?
Heart and Brain Health Alerts: Know A to Z for cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction
Cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction are the "invisible killers" of middle-aged and elderly health, and understanding their essence is the first step to prevention. This section will demystify cerebral infarction and heart attack, providing you with the necessary basics to help you better understand these two common but dangerous health problems.
1. Basic definitions of cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction
Cerebral infarction, commonly known as cerebral infarction, is caused by the blockage of cerebral blood vessels, which leads to the interruption of blood flow to the brain, resulting in ischemia and hypoxia of brain tissue, resulting in damage or death of brain cells.
Myocardial infarction, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when the blood vessels in the heart are blocked, resulting in insufficient blood supply to the myocardial area, causing damage or death of myocardial cells.
2. Detailed analysis of influencing factors
Circulatory disorders: cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction are direct causes of obstruction of blood circulation. When lipids and cholesterol accumulate in the blood to form plaques, it can lead to narrowing or blockage of blood vessels.
Lifestyle effects: Unhealthy diet, Xi inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption all increase the risk of cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction.
Chronic conditions: Chronic diseases such as hypertension (increased blood pressure in systemic arteries), diabetes (abnormal glucose metabolism), and heart disease are also important risk factors.
3. The importance of prevention
Early identification: The risk of cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction can be identified early by understanding and monitoring key health indicators (e.g., blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol levels).
Lifestyle modifications: Healthy dietary Xi, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and alcohol restriction are key measures to prevent cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction.
Regular check-ups: Regular and comprehensive check-ups, especially of the heart and brain, are essential for early detection of problems.
Key Risk Indicator: Ring the health alarm bells
High blood pressure: the danger of being quiet
High blood pressure, or increased blood pressure in the systemic arteries, is a major factor in heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. This "silent killer" usually has no obvious symptoms, but long-term high blood pressure can cause serious damage to the heart and brain. Keeping blood pressure within the normal range is essential for the prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
Dyslipidemia: a hidden threat
Dyslipidemia, including high cholesterol and high triglycerides, is another key factor in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Abnormal blood lipid levels can lead to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart and brain infarction. It is important to check your blood lipid levels regularly to know your total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) values.
Glycemic control: Prevents abnormal glucose metabolism
Diabetes mellitus or abnormal glucose metabolism is an important risk factor for heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. High blood sugar can damage the walls of blood vessels, increasing the risk of blood clots. Effective management of blood glucose levels and control of abnormal glucose metabolism through diet, exercise, and, if necessary, medication is essential to prevent heart and cerebrovascular disease.
Precautions: Life's Secret Weapon
Eating a balanced diet: the cornerstone of health
A balanced diet is essential to prevent heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. You should increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables and limit foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt. Choose whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products, which help maintain normal blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar levels.
Regular exercise: It's not just about losing weight
Regular physical activity is an important way to maintain heart health. Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling, can improve heart function, lower blood pressure and raise cholesterol levels. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week have a significant effect on preventing heart disease and cerebrovascular disease.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Eliminate unnecessary risks
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are both important risk factors for heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. Moderate alcohol consumption, especially limiting high alcohol intake, is also necessary to maintain cardiovascular health.
Stress Management: The Importance of Mental Health
Constant stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on the heart. Xi effective stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga, can reduce the risk of heart disease and cerebral infarction. Maintaining a positive mindset and social connections are also beneficial for mental health.