Warning Signs of a Heart Attack for Women
By Sara Butler
Heart disease accounts for a serious problem in this country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report about 610,000 deaths are related to heart disease in the United States per year. For women, heart disease is also the leading cause of death -- accounting for 1 in every 4 female deaths. Needless to say, it’s an issue everyone needs to take seriously. But for women, the classic signs and symptoms of heart attacks may not be what you should be on the lookout for. Heart attack symptoms for women are different. Here’s what you should be on the lookout for so you don’t become a part of the statistics.
Women’s Symptoms
Over the last several years it’s become apparent that the symptoms classically associated with a heart attack can be different for women than in men. That’s why women are far more likely to die from heart attack than men because they don’t get help at the first sign that something may be wrong.
In addition to chest pressure and pain that signals a possible heart attack, some symptoms women can experience include:
- Shortness of breath
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Cold sweat
- Lightheadedness
- Discomfort or pain in the back, jaw, stomach, neck, or arms
Signs can be mild, but if you experience any of these, then you need to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Lower Your Risk
Self-care is an important way to lower your risk and prevent heart disease. Make sure to have regular checkups with your healthcare provider and be open and honest with them if you’ve been experiencing symptoms that are of concern to you. If you have a family history of heart disease, elevated blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, this can also increase your risk. Speak with your caregiver about what you can do to lower your risk.
Lifestyle changes can make a big difference too. If you smoke, quit now. If you don’t exercise, then start. Walking just 20 minutes per day can make a difference in your cardiovascular health, lowering your risk of stroke and heart attack. Consider meeting with a nutritionist to help you create a healthy food plan too.
It’s important to understand your risk factors for heart disease and take steps to lower your chances of a heart attack. Remember to educate yourself about heart disease and your risk factors so you can do what you can to diminish them.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.