Heart Healthy Minute: Women's Heart Health

For women, heart health is especially important. That is because, heart disease, once considered a “man’s disease,” is the leading cause of death for women, both in America as well as internationally. In the U.S., 1 in 16 women age 20 and older have coronary heart disease, which is when the surrounding arteries cannot deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart.

Some women may be unaware of heart trouble until it becomes an emergency, so it’s important to be aware of heart attack symptoms, which can present differently for women. If you experience one or more signs of a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

Common symptoms of heart attack include:

• Chest pain, pressure or squeezing

• Pain in the neck, jaw, throat or arm

• Pain in the upper abdomen or back

Some additional warning signs women have reported are:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue or inability to maintain usual activity level or workout

• Lightheadedness

• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort

• Unexplained blurred vision

• Cold sweats

• Anxiety or fear of impending doom

You can take steps to reduce the likelihood of heart disease. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, manage your stress level, limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking. Be sure to see your primary care provider at least once a year for routine care.

For more information about Women's Heart Health or taking care of your heart, visit heart care services page, or call St. Luke's Heart Care Clinic at (319) 364-7101.