Heart health after 40: Symptoms men and women should not dismiss as ageing

Renowned longevity physician Florence Comite shared early warning signs of accelerated ageing on The Genius Life Podcast. Erectile dysfunction in men and persistent fatigue in women were mentioned as potential indicators of cardiovascular disease. But can these symptoms truly signal premature heart and blood vessel ageing? Cardiologist Dr Anup Taksande, from KIMS Hospitals, Thane, clarifies that not all age-related issues are inevitable or normal.

Dr Taksande explains that erectile dysfunction is not a natural part of ageing for all men. It often signals cardiovascular disease, as the blood vessels in the penis are smaller and may show vascular damage before heart disease symptoms appear. The onset of erectile dysfunction may precede heart disease by two to five years, though other factors like stress, medication, hormonal imbalances, or psychological issues can also contribute.

Men experiencing persistent erectile dysfunction should undergo medical evaluation, including blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol checks, and overall cardiovascular risk assessment.

Women experiencing persistent fatigue should also seek medical attention. It could be a sign of underlying conditions such as anemia, thyroid disorders, or diabetes. While cardiovascular disease often presents with chest pain in both sexes, women may experience unusual fatigue, breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance, or discomfort in other areas like the back or jaw.

Cardiovascular health is influenced by more than just age and sex; lifestyle factors like smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, high cholesterol, and uncontrolled blood pressure can accelerate vascular damage in both men and women.