Women & Heart Health

Despite our heightened awareness about various kinds of cancer, heart disease continues to be the disease

that takes more women’s  lives than any other.   February has been designated as a time to raise awareness

 about heart disease, the warning signs, and how to prevent and screen for illness.

 5 Warning Signs

1)      Jaw and Neck Pain

If you cannot pinpoint the pain, get help. If the pain lasts longer than one minute, get help!

2)     Nausea, Indigestion, Stomach Pain

If you experience discomfort beneath the rib cage and it is not relieved by an antacid, it may be a heart issue.

3)     Shortness of breath during normal daily activities.

While walking, you should be able to talk.   If breathing is labored, get it checked out!

4)     Dizziness or Light Headedness

This symptom often occurs when blood pressure drops too low.  If you experience dizziness or light

 headedness and it continues, even after  sitting down for a while, 

it may be a symptom of heart disease.

5)      Unusual Fatigue

Seventy percent of women who have a heart problem have fatigue leading up to a heart attack.  If there is a 

change in the amount of daily  activity you’re able to do.

Predictors of Heart Disease

CRP Test- The C-Reactive Protein test is a simple blood test that reveals whether or not you are at low,

 average, or high risk for heart disease.

Electrocardiogram Test-  This test, performed at a doctor’s office, reveals the rhythm of your heartbeat, 

and quickly assesses any abnormalities.

Family History-  If anyone in the immediate family has heart disease, a person may be at higher risk.

Touch Your Toes-  If you’re able to bend over and touch your toes, you are flexible.  If not, you may be

 at increased risk for heart disease.

Lifestyle-  Staying within the Body Mass Index for your height may also be a predictor of increased 

risk for heart disease.