Know the signs of heart disease in women
Even though it is the number one killer of women, 80 percent of heart disease is actually preventable.
Every February on Go Red for Women Day, individuals across the country wear red to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke in women and promote healthy lifestyle changes. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, but 80 percent of cases are preventable with knowledge and proactive action.
Despite its prevalence, many women are unaware of the risks or believe it won’t happen to them. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms unique to women is critical for prevention and early intervention.
Risk factors for heart disease in women
The fact is, everyone is at risk for heart disease, a general term that includes many types of heart problems, including heart attack and coronary artery disease (a build-up of plaque in the arteries that supply the heart muscle with blood). However, several factors increase women’s risk.
- Menopause
- Family history of heart disease
- Endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Use of hormonal birth control (pills, patches, or vaginal rings with estrogen and progesterone)
- Low HDL cholesterol levels
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Overweight or obesity
- Unhealthy diet
- Physical inactivity
- Stress, anxiety and depression
- High alcohol consumption
Symptoms of heart disease and attack in women
When many people picture a heart attack, they imagine feeling severe chest pressure and crushing pain. While these classic signs are often the case in men, they are not as common in women. Women’s heart attack symptoms tend to be more subtle and come and go, making them harder to recognize. These symptoms include:
- Heaviness or tightness in upper body
- Shortness of breath
- Lightheadedness
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Indigestion
- Flu-like symptoms
Bottom line: Any new or unusual symptom should be taken seriously. If you think you are having a heart attack, call 911 right away. Women often experience more complications after heart attacks due to ignoring symptoms or delaying their care.
How to lower your risk of heart disease
Understanding risk factors and symptoms is only part of the solution. Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.
High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer”, can lead to heart disease. It’s important to get your blood pressure checked regularly and if it’s above the normal range, work with your health-care provider on lifestyle changes or in some cases, medications that can help.
High levels of cholesterol can clog arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Women should have their cholesterol checked every four to six years.
Being overweight or obese can increase the risk for heart disease, mainly because these conditions are connected to other risk factors like high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
A diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, combined with regular exercise, strengthens the heart and improves circulation. Limiting saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars is also beneficial.
Drinking alcohol can raise blood pressure and the added calories can contribute to weight gain—two factors for increased risk of heart disease. Women shouldn't have more than one drink per day.
Having diabetes doubles the risk of heart disease because high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. Talk to your provider about whether you should be tested for diabetes. Women with pre-diabetes or diabetes should work with their health-care provider to manage blood glucose levels.
Smoking (including second-hand smoke) raises blood pressure and puts individuals at higher risk for heart attack and stroke. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to improve heart health.
Stress is linked to heart disease since it raises blood pressure and can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like overeating, heavy drinking, and smoking. Techniques like exercise, meditation, and listening to music can help reduce stress more effectively.
By addressing risk factors, making informed lifestyle choices, and working closely with health-care providers, women can take control of their heart health. Preventing heart disease is possible, and understanding the steps to do so can save lives.
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