Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. Despite this alarming fact, many women don’t realize they are at risk.
Understanding your heart health is essential in preventing heart disease and stroke, and it starts with knowing your risks and taking action.
Women’s heart health often looks different than men’s. Symptoms of a heart attack in women can be subtler, such as fatigue, nausea, or back pain, rather than the classic chest pain many associate with heart issues. Due to these differences, heart disease in women is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.
That’s why it’s crucial to speak openly with your healthcare provider about your heart health.
Regular heart check-ups can make a big difference. When you visit your doctor, ask about your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other key indicators of heart health. It’s also a good idea to discuss your family history, lifestyle habits, and any symptoms you may be experiencing, even if they seem minor.
Early detection and lifestyle changes, like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking, can significantly lower your risk of heart disease.
Advancements in women’s heart health have come a long way, thanks to dedicated research. Experts like Dr. Holly Andersen and Dr. Noel Bairey Merz have been at the forefront of educating women and their healthcare providers about the unique aspects of heart disease in women.
Their efforts emphasize that women’s symptoms and risk factors can differ, and understanding these differences can save lives.
It’s time to prioritize women’s heart health.
Share this information, encourage the women in your life to get their hearts checked, and be proactive about your own health. By spreading awareness and understanding the unique risks women face, we can help reduce the number of lives lost to heart disease. Your heart health is worth the effort – take the first step today by scheduling a check-up and learning more about how to protect your heart.