Looking older may be a predictor of heart disease
Earlobe creases, a receding hairline, baldness and fatty deposits around the eyes are tall tale sign of aging. These aging changes may also point to underlying health issues, studies suggest. Many studies indicate that a linear wrinkle on the earlobes may be a predictor of cardiovascular events (i.e. heart attack), said Sameer Sayeed, MD, a cardiologist with ColumbiaDoctors of Somers, N.Y.
“Scientists offer no explanation for this link but suggest it should be considered a factor in determining those patients who may be at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Wrinkles and gray hair, in general, are not associated with heart disease risk specifically, according to Sayeed. “However, studies found smokers are more susceptible to developing early wrinkles and skin changes.”
Dr. Payman Simoni believes as unhealthy habits like smoking, poor diet, and exercise would facilitate aging process they could also predispose one to cardiovascular diseases. On the same token, fatty deposits around the eyes may be due to a problem with cholesterol metabolism, either overproduction or inadequate removal from the body, said Sayeed, who recommends practicing a strict diet and exercise, taking preventative measures and closely monitoring cholesterol levels and blood pressure.