Women can experience unique health challenges throughout their lives when it comes to hormones, reproduction, and female systems, but it is heart disease that is the leading cause of death among women globally, more than all forms of cancer combined. Understanding women’s cardiovascular health, risks, and preventive strategies can keep you healthy for longer.
Female Factors That Increase Heart Disease Risks
Women of all ages are at risk of cardiovascular disease, and some face specific risk factors at certain times of their lives:
- High blood pressure. During pregnancy, many women experience high blood pressure and preeclampsia, which significantly increases the risk of developing heart disease later in life. High blood pressure in general is the top risk factor in women’s cardiovascular health.
- Menopause. As though hormone fluctuations aren’t enough of an interruption in female health and well-being – weight gain, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and so much more – the decline in estrogen levels post-menopause increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The acceleration in risk factors necessitates an increased focus on female health, nutrition, and lifestyle.
- Diabetes. It’s not just type 1 diabetes that is relevant to heart disease risks, but also gestational diabetes which may develop during pregnancy. This occurrence affects the chances of cardiovascular disease in the future. Women with diabetes are also more likely to develop heart disease than men with diabetes.
Signs of Women’s Cardiovascular Health Problems
Many women may not see themselves as being at risk of heart disease because they don’t exhibit “typical” symptoms of cardiovascular complications. As with the risks of heart disease, how it presents is different between men and women and can lead to misdiagnosis or lack of treatment. Common symptoms for women who have this chronic condition can include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Neck or jaw pain
- Nausea
- Left arm pain
- Chest discomfort
Women’s Heart Disease Prevention Strategies
Every patient is different, but the risk for heart disease is real for every woman as she ages and goes through significant times in her life. Your awareness of prevention measures will go a long way to prevent heart disease and your connection with your dedicated doctor will ensure that your heart health is monitored and measured for optimum care.
Prevention strategies can include:
- Education. Understanding heart health and threats to your cardiovascular system will positively impact choices about what you put in your body and how you take care of yourself. Personal risk factors and family history are also important to consider.
- Lifestyle. Regular physical activity is essential in helping to maintain good heart health. Even if you have physical limitations, your doctor is prepared to help you develop a manageable, effective routine that positively impacts body and mind.
- Nutrition. A balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits can lower risk factors and also help keep cholesterol levels in check.
Say Yes to Cardiovascular Care
Preventive care is the key to managing risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Make an appointment with me, Dr. Maria Swetech, to discuss your health now, the state of your heart health, and how your lifestyle, wellness, nutrition, and movement can positively impact your well-being and significantly reduce your likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
Nothing in this blog is official medical advice. See your doctor for customized care.
