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What Are the Signs of Heart Disease in Women?
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, but its signs and risks are often overlooked. Women can experience different heart attack symptoms than men. Chest pain is noted as the main symptom, but women may experience non-chest-related symptoms during a heart attack, making warning signs less obvious. Understanding the signs of heart disease in women can support early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, whether you’re caring for yourself or a loved one. It’s time to take heart health seriously this American Heart Month and beyond.
Heart Attack Symptoms
Common signs in women may include:
- Chest pain
- Lower chest or upper abdomen pain or pressure
- Jaw, neck, or upper back pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting
- Cold sweats
- Indigestion
- Extreme fatigue
It is important to seek medical help if something feels off. Chest pain in women can feel different than in men. It may not be sharp, but rather mild discomfort or tightness. Everyday activities may trigger shortness of breath or extreme fatigue, and nausea or vomiting can easily be mistaken for anxiety or illnesses such as the flu. Symptoms may come and go, but if something feels off, be sure to bring it up to your CHDC provider.
Source: https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/about-heart-disease-in-women/signs-and-symptoms-in-women/symptoms-of-a-heart-attack, https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/about-heart-disease-in-women
Heart Disease Risk Factors
Common risk factors of heart disease in women that can be managed include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Menopause or hormonal changes
Managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can improve heart health. At CHDC, our medical team provides patients with the proper care, treatment, and education, giving you every resource available to help manage your chronic condition. To learn more about Chronic Care Management at CHDC, click here.
Uncontrollable risk factors of heart disease in women include:
- Age
- Gender
- Family history of heart disease
- Race
- Previous stroke or heart attack
Knowing your risk factors and scheduling routine visits with your medical provider can help with prevention. Early treatment and proactive management can reduce the risk of serious complications in the future.
Source: https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/know-your-risk/risk-factors
Tips to Improve Heart Health
Simple lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of heart disease and improve your quality of life. Adult Medical Provider Neliza Lao, who practices at our CHDC Barto office, offers expert insight on practical ways to support and improve your heart health.
- Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. If you don't exercise at all, a brief walk is a great way to start. Take a 10-minute walk each day.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet. Eat one fruit or vegetable a day and limit processed foods and sugars.
- Maintain a healthy weight. It can reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Manage Stress. Try breathing slowly and deeply for a few minutes a day. It can help you relax. Slow, deep breathing may also help lower blood pressure. Aside from deep breathing, practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, tai-chi or pick up a paintbrush or colored pencil and draw or paint.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol. It can significantly benefit heart health.
Neliza has availability for appointments that can be conveniently booked online through Zocdoc at our CHDC Barto office. If you are a Barto resident or live in the surrounding area and would like to schedule an appointment to discuss your heart health or book a regular check-up, click here to book online through Zocdoc.
A Reminder About Heart Health Awareness
Each February during American Heart Month, CHDC staff wear red on Wear Red Day, hosted by the American Heart Association, to raise awareness about heart disease in women. Women sometimes forget to prioritize their heart health because of the demands of family, career, or daily tasks. Together, we can spread awareness and educate each other about healthier lifestyle choices that reduce the risk of heart disease.
Heart disease symptoms in women are not always obvious. Knowing your risk factors, recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack, and listening to your body can help protect your heart and overall health. To learn more about the American Heart Association and their Go Red for Women initiative, click here.
If you would like to schedule an appointment at CHDC, please call 610-326-9460 to speak with a Patient Services Representative.