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"Sleep deprivation and over-exercise are a double-edged sword for your heart." Dr. Li's remark made Zhang Wei visibly uneasy.
Zhang Wei, a 60-year-old retired accountant, came to the hospital for a comprehensive check-up on the advice of his family doctor because of his recent heavy dreams.
After retiring, Zhang Wei decided to pursue a healthier and more active lifestyle.
He joined the local dance club and danced several times a week.
At the same time, in order to stay in shape, he also insisted on running every morning, even on cold winter days.
At first, this new lifestyle seemed to bring him youthful vitality and a healthy body.
However, the good times did not last long, and for two months, he began to experience frequent insomnia and nightmares.
During the examination at the hospital, the doctor found that Zhang Wei's heart was slightly enlarged, and his blood pressure was high and low, which was very unstable.
Dr Lee explains that while exercise is good for the body, excessive exercise and improper rest can have a negative impact on the heart.
He cites a study that showed that people over the age of 60 had a significantly increased risk of heart attack if they didn't get enough rest after high-intensity exercise.
Zhang Wei's case is not unique.
Dr. Lee recounted another case in detail, an elderly man who also loved running, suddenly suffered a myocardial infarction after a marathon.
Studies have shown that excessive exercise, especially without proper supervision, can lead to an increased burden on the heart, especially in older people.
The data, from a long-term follow-up study of 5,000 participants between the ages of 55 and 70, showed a non-negligible link between excessive exercise and heart problems.
In addition to exercise habits, Zhang Wei's sleep problems are also an important factor in the deterioration of his health.
Lack of quality sleep has been shown to exacerbate the risk of heart disease.
Studies have shown that persistent sleep deprivation can lead to an increase in blood pressure, which can increase the burden on the heart.
In addition, poor sleep quality can also affect the body's metabolic function, further increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
This discovery shocked Zhang Wei.
It never occurred to him that what he thought was healthy habits would be the underlying trigger for his current health problems.
On the advice of his doctor, Zhang Wei began to adjust his exercise program to reduce high-intensity exercise and try some relaxing activities such as yoga and meditation to improve sleep quality.
Dr. Lee also emphasises that even a healthy lifestyle requires individualized adjustments and a moderate balance.
For seniors like Zhang Wei, proper exercise and adequate rest are key to maintaining good health.
Zhang Wei thanked Dr. Li for his advice and decided to pay more attention to his physical condition from now on, and no longer blindly pursue the improvement of physical activity, but the overall health and well-being of the body.
As Zhang Wei gradually adapted to his new lifestyle, he began to notice noticeable changes in his body.
His sleep quality has improved, he no longer wakes up frequently at night, and his heart tests have shown a noticeable improvement.
However, this story raises an important question: how to develop a scientifically sound exercise plan for seniors without compromising heart health?
In this regard, the individual's specific circumstances need to be carefully considered, including age, health status, and previous sports history.
Professional exercise physiologists and physicians should work together to develop an exercise regimen suitable for older adults, emphasizing low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise;
Such as brisk walking, swimming or billiards, as well as some strength training, but pay special attention to the frequency and intensity of the exercise.
At the same time, adding an appropriate amount of stretching and balance training can effectively reduce the risk of falls and enhance the quality of life of the elderly.
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