Every day, it feels like life gets a little busier. And for many women who juggle multiple roles – professional, mother, spouse, caregiver, active community member, it can be easy to disregard your own health and wellness to focus on others; but alarming statistics tell us women need to remember their heart health, too.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a woman dies every 80 seconds from heart disease in the United States. This common disease is the cause of death for one in three women every year. In fact, the AHA states that heart disease causes more deaths in women than all cancers combined.
Statistics also show that 90 percent of women have at least one risk factor associated with heart disease or stroke. As many as 80 percent of heart disease related events could have been prevented by lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, being physically active, and getting regular check-ups.
“One of the best ways to defend yourself from cardiovascular disease is to schedule regular well-visits with your health care provider. Your provider will check important numbers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index. It’s critical to know these numbers so that any potential health concern can be caught early, helping prevent your risk for heart disease,” says Paula Eryazici, MD, Cardiologist on the medical staff at Chester County Hospital.
Heart Attack Symptoms for Women
Typical heart attack symptoms for men and women include chest pain or discomfort; discomfort in other areas of the upper body, such as one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach; breaking out in a cold sweat; and others.
“Although these are the most common heart attack warning signs, symptoms of a heart attack can be different in women. For instance, women are more likely than men to experience shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, nausea and vomiting, or neck and back pain. Sometimes women will mistake these symptoms for stress, when in reality, they could be having a heart attack,” Dr. Eryazici adds.
Effects on Women
Women who are 55 and younger are less likely to have a heart attack than men. However, they are more likely to die from their first heart attack. According to the American Heart Association’s Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Scientific Sessions 2013, those who survive are more likely to experience a lower quality of life, including having chest pain, medical issues, and worsening physical and mental capabilities.
Women in this age group were also more likely to have diabetes, obesity, depression, heart or renal failure, and/or depression than men, prior to their heart attack.
Preventative Measures
There are several risk factors that contribute to heart disease – some are uncontrollable, such as your family history, but many can be prevented. The American Heart Association recommends making lifestyle changes to reduce your risk including: quitting smoking; monitoring your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels; regularly exercising; eating a healthy diet; and knowing your family medical history. Be sure to talk to your doctor about making any major lifestyle changes.
Paula Eryazici, MD, is a cardiologist at West Chester Cardiology.
