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14th February 2025
Show Your Heart Some TLC This Valentine’s Day
While Valentine's Day is a time for celebration of the love we have for others, it can also be an opportunity to give some tender love and care to yourself and your health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women worldwide, and the symptoms can differ from those experienced by men. This Valentine’s Day let's focus on understanding these differences and taking proactive steps towards better heart health.
What Makes Women's Heart Health Unique?
Heart disease and heart attacks often manifest differently in women compared to men. While men typically experience sharp chest pain, women might have symptoms that are harder to identify. Pregnancy and menopause can also impact heart health. Many women delay seeking medical help due to busy schedules or a lack of awareness, which can have negative consequences.
How Can You Recognise Heart Disease Symptoms in Women?
It is crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease in women, as they can differ from the symptoms seen in men:
- Chest discomfort: Tightness, pressure, or squeezing in the chest rather than sharp pain.
- Pain in other areas: Discomfort radiating to the neck, jaw, shoulders, upper back, or abdomen.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing during everyday activities.
- Nausea or dizziness: Light-headedness, fainting, or nausea.
- Unusual fatigue: Persistent tiredness unrelated to physical activity.
- Additional symptoms: Feeling hot or flushed; numbness in hands or fingers; new vision issues; headaches; choking sensation.
What Are the Early Warning Signs of a Heart Attack in Women?
Women might also experience early warning signs, which can indicate an impending heart attack:
- Feeling anxious
- Increased indigestion
- Feeling more “foggy” than usual
- Issues with breathing at night or sleeping
- Development of a cough
How Do Pregnancy and Menopause Affect Heart Health?
Pregnancy: Conditions like high blood pressure and gestational diabetes can arise during pregnancy, increasing the risk of future cardiovascular problems. Consult with your doctor throughout and after pregnancy to address any heart health concerns.
Menopause: As women go through menopause, their risk of cardiovascular disease increases due to decreasing oestrogen levels, which play a protective role in heart health. Regular check-ups and being aware of heart disease symptoms are vital during this time.
What Other Risk Factors Should Women Be Aware Of?
Additional factors that can increase heart health risks for women include:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Autoimmune diseases
- Post-partum weakening of the heart
- Oral contraceptives combined with other risk factors like obesity and smoking
How Can You Take More Care of Your Heart Health?
Making small, meaningful changes to your lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. Here are some practical steps you can take:
- Focus on nutrition: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and trans fats.
- Stay physically active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or yoga. Incorporate strength training to support heart health and overall fitness.
- Manage stress: Practise mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation techniques to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
- Know your numbers: Keep track of key health metrics, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Regular health checks, like Mater Private Network’s HeartCheck service, aid early detection of issues.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Avoid smoking and moderate alcohol consumption to reduce strain on your heart.
Why Check Your Heart Health Today?
Ensuring your heart is healthy allows you to continue sharing special moments with your loved ones. Knowing your heart health status is an empowering step. Mater Private Network offers comprehensive HeartCheck services designed to assess your cardiovascular health and identify potential risks early.
By staying informed about the unique risks and symptoms of cardiac illness, and by making proactive lifestyle choices, you can take control of your cardiovascular wellbeing. Let’s use this Valentine’s Day as a reminder to look after your heart and ensure it is in good shape to enjoy many more celebrations in the years to come.
Learn more about our HeartCheck services.
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