Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year? That’s approximately one woman every minute!

Heart disease doesn’t affect all woman in the same way, and symptoms that are seen in men will not be seen women. We put together the symptoms for heart disease in women, and some ways to stay healthy and prevent heart disease.

Signs and symptoms:

Heart attacks and strokes are life threatening, and every second counts! Here are symptoms that someone who is experiencing a heart attack or stroke may experience:

Signs and Symptoms of Heart Attack:

• Pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of chest
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, neck, jaw or stomach
• Shortness of breath
• Breaking out in a cold sweat
• Nausea
• Lightheadedness

Signs and Symptoms of Stroke:

• Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, leg or one side of the body
• Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Trouble seeing
• Blurred vision in one or both eyes
• Trouble walking
• Dizziness
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Severe headache with no cause

If you have any of these signs, call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away.

Preventing Cardiovascular Disease

Caring for your heart through a healthy diet and regular physical activity is the secret weapon to preventing heart disease. Here are some ways to introduce good nutrition and physical activity into your everyday life.

Good Nutrition

You have the power to reduce your risk of heart disease by creating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats and whole grains. Introducing these portions into your daily life can also create a good defense against the onset of high cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart disease. Here’s how much you should have of each:

Fruits and vegetables: At least 4.5 cups a day

Fish (preferably oily fish, like salmon): At least two 3.5-ounce servings a week

Fiber-rich whole grains: At least three 1-ounce servings a day

Nuts, legumes and seeds: At least 4 servings a week, opting for unsalted varieties whenever possible

Exercise:

Meanwhile, the heart-healthy benefits of exercising for just 30 minutes a day are nearly endless. To name a few, exercise:

• Improves blood circulation
• Keeps your weight under control
• Improves cholesterol levels
• Prevents and manages high blood pressure
• Boosts energy level
• Helps manage stress
• Reduces coronary heart disease in women by 30-40 percent
• Reduces risk of stroke by 20 percent in moderately active people
• Delays and chronic illness and disease associated with aging

Heart disease can happen at any age! Find out if you’re at risk for heart disease by scheduling an appointment with one of our providers at 509-488-5256