Heart disease is the number one killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths
each year.
American women are five times more likely to die of heart disease than
breast cancer.
Did you know that heart attack symptoms can be different in women? Over
the past few decades, heart attack survival rates have improved overall.
However, the signs and symptoms of a heart attack in women may be different
or less noticeable than men. Women are less likely to experience typical
chest pain during a heart attack. They are diagnosed less frequently,
are less inclined to seek prompt medical care and are therefore less likely
to survive a heart attack.
Women often experience:
Jaw pain
Back pain
Heaviness of arms
Lightheadedness
Epigastric burning
Nausea and/or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Feeling flushed
Clammy skin
Unusual or unexplained fatigue
Abnormal belching
Absence of chest pain or presence of vague chest discomfort
If you think you are having a heart attack, call
911! Emergency medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment right away,
even before you get to the hospital.
Survive. Don’t Drive!
Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Make these lifestyle changes:
Schedule an annual well woman visit
Know your numbers – blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar
Know your heart risk factors
Eat less sugar and simple carbohydrates
Eat more fruits and vegetables
Stop smoking
Know your family history
Exercise
Work with your doctor
Early Detection
Blood tests for cholesterol and C-reactive protein (CRP)
Since heart symptoms in women are often vague, cardiac imaging is even
more important to help assess risk and guide therapy. Based on your history
and risk factors, your doctor will decide if you are a candidate for the
following
heart tests:
Echocardiogram - a test to assess heart muscle function, heart valve function and pressures
over the heart
Stress testing - a test to determine whether you have blockages in the arteries of your heart
Ultrasound carotid - a test to assess whether you have blockages in the arteries of your neck
Holter (monitor) - a device that listens to the rhythm of your heart
Treatment
Many heart diseases require a combination of diet, exercise, medication
and surgery. Valley Health cardiovascular physicians perform many procedures
using minimally invasive techniques. Minimally invasive procedures mean
less pain, minimal scarring, shorter hospital stays and a quicker return
to an active lifestyle. Older women in particular tend to be better candidates
for minimally invasive procedures.
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