Why pulse pressure matters for heart health after 60

Pulse pressure is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. Dr Parin Sangoi, a consultant interventional cardiologist, explains that it's an important indicator of heart health in older adults. As arteries become less flexible with age, increased pulse pressure may signal stiffened arteries that require the heart to work harder to pump blood.

This is concerning as it can indicate atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, or other diseases. Studies link persistent widened pulse pressure to increased risks of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications. However, doctors emphasize that pulse pressure should be interpreted within the context of the overall clinical picture and not in isolation.

Factors like stress, physical activity, and the method of measurement can impact blood pressure readings. It's the trend over time that matters most; a consistently high pulse pressure in older individuals or those with cardiovascular risk factors warrants medical attention. Dr Sangoi advises taking blood pressure readings regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, low salt intake, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding tobacco.

Managing diabetes, cholesterol, and kidney disease are also crucial. Ultimately, focus should be on keeping blood vessels healthy and minimizing overall cardiovascular risk through consistent check-ups and timely treatment.