Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, regardless of their race or ethnicity. One of every three women dies of heart disease compared to 1 in 30 deaths from breast cancer.
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, regardless of their race or ethnicity. One of every three women dies of heart disease compared to 1 in 30 deaths from breast cancer.
The symptoms women experience during a heart attack often differ from those men experience, thus heart attacks in women can be misdiagnosed. Women tend to ignore the onset of symptoms, which they may not recognize as a heart attack:
33 percent report atypical symptoms
22 percent report typical chest pain symptoms
Left untreated, heart disease can lead to serious complications.
Be prepared, learn the symptoms of a heart attack and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these:
Typical symptoms
Sweating, without exertion or more than usual;
Nausea; and
Sudden rapid heartbeat.
Atypical symptoms
Unexplained shortness of breath;
Chest discomfort - pressure, tingling, squeezing or a full feeling;
Indigestion;
Discomfort in the upper shoulder blades;
Swelling of the legs or ankles;
Nausea or dizziness
Heart palpitations, cold sweat.
The good news is you can take steps to prevent heart disease. Take charge of your health:
Follow your healthcare professional’s recommendations, including taking prescribed medications. Make fitness a lifestyle, exercise three to five times per week. Take the stairs and park as far away from the building entrances as possible.
Drink water everywhere you go.
Make low-fat choices. Keep your cholesterol down by eating lean beef, chicken or turkey (roasted or baked with the skin removed), fruits, vegetables, low-fat or fat-free dairy products and whole grains.
Limit salt and watch for hidden salts such as sodium caseinate, sodium sulfite, monosodium glutamate and sodium citrate.
n Control your weight by watching your calorie intake and being physically active.
n Keep healthy foods handy for snacking.
n Quit smoking.
Relapses are normal. Just get back on track immediately with more determination to establish a healthy lifestyle.