For several years running heart disease has remained the number one cause of death for women in the United States. This doesn’t have to be the case if we can get enough women to sit up and pay attention to the risk factors and from there live a more healthful lifestyle – it just may keep heart disease at bay!

The highest risk group is those in mid-life 40’s to 60’s because of menopause which is accompanied by changing cholesterol levels, fat distribution, and body composition changes.

A shocking 90% of women have one or more risk factors for heart problems at some point in their lives. The good news is that 80% of cardiovascular diseases are still preventable.

HOW TO HELP YOUR BODY STAVE OFF HEART DISEASE EVEN IF YOU ARE AT RISK

#1 Be aware of the women’s version of symptoms of a heart attack

Women’s heart attack symptoms differ from those in men. Women may experience the “classic” heart attack symptoms of chest pressure, chest discomfort or shortness of breath, just as men do but they also may have shoulder pain, stomach fullness, and back pain.

#2 Heart Attack Symptoms: Men vs. Women

MEN: Nausea, vomiting, jaw, neck or back pain, pressure or squeezing in the chest, and shortness of breath.

WOMEN: Nausea, vomiting, jaw neck or upper back pain, pain and or pressure in the abdomen or lower chest, shortness of breath, fainting, indigestion, and extreme tiredness.

#3 Pregnancy complications

Pregnancy acts as a stress test for the body. It can be very trying and give away telltale signs that you may be approaching cardiovascular issues later in life. Signals in pregnancy can include experiencing the onset of diabetes and hypertension where they did not exist pre-pregnancy.

#4 Sleep Problems

Getting less than seven hours a night has been linked to heart disease. Insomnia has been linked with hypertension, which can make it difficult to lose weight.

#5 Banish stress

Chronic stress can impact heart disease by way of additional high blood pressure, high cholesterol, inactivity, and overeating.

Find ways to help lower stress in your life and at work. Identify the stressors and work toward minimizing or eliminating them altogether.

#6 Attend annual checkups

Annual checkups are important for your heart health. Watch your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. A blood pressure reading of less than 120/80 is considered normal.

We are here to help. Come see the physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates and make sure your heart is healthy and stays that way for life! www.tampacardio.com 813-975-2800.