By Lezlie Mathews
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, yet many still believe it is primarily a “man’s disease”.
Awareness has increased over recent years, but there continues to be a gap in knowledge impacting disease recognition, evaluation and treatment. Women’s heart health deserves focused attention because symptoms, risk factors and outcomes look different for women. This simple checklist can help you take charge of your heart health at every stage of life.
Know Your Numbers
Understanding your key health numbers is one of the most powerful tools you have at your disposal. Make sure you know your blood pressure, cholesterol levels (including LDL, HDL and triglycerides), blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). High blood pressure and cholesterol often cause no symptoms, especially in women, until significant damage has occurred. Blood pressure and cholesterol can be managed with diet and medications lowering heart disease risk
Don’t Ignore Atypical Symptoms
Women are more likely than men to experience subtle or non-classic heart symptoms. Unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, jaw or back pain, dizziness or changes in sleep can all signal heart trouble. If something feels new, persistent, or concerning, trust your instinct and discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Assess Your Personal Risk Factors
Family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking are the strongest risk factors for the development of heart disease.
However, other conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes and pre- term delivery also increase long-term cardiovascular risk. In addition, early menopause, autoimmune diseases, sedentary lifestyle and chronic stress can play a role. Share your full health history with your provider- it matters.
Move Your Body In Ways You Enjoy
Living on the Coast offers natural opportunities for movement, and in a beautiful setting to boot. Walking on the beach or boardwalk, swimming, cycling and strength training all count. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. Consistency is more important than intensity.
Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management
Poor sleep and chronic stress raise inflammation and strain the cardiovascular system. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and find stress-relief strategies that year.
Lezlie Mathews, FNP-BC, CVNP, works with Dr. Antoine Rizk at Coast Cardiovascular Associates. Reach her office at (228) 863-8868.