The Truth About Heart Disease & Women
Did you know that in the United States, almost as many women as men die each year of heart disease? The American Heart Association emphasizes that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women, resulting in 1 in 3 deaths each year. However, women’s symptoms sometimes differ from symptoms commonly seen in men, increasing their chances of delayed treatment and complications.
For example, women don’t always display classic heart attack signs when in distress, such as chest pain. Instead, women may also experience shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, extreme fatigue, jaw, back pain and indigestion.
“We need to emphasize to the community that women are just as vulnerable as men to cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Rahul Garg, cardiologist at Harbin Clinic Cardiology Rome. “Understanding your heart health by scheduling regular screenings, annual appointments and adopting healthy lifestyle choices can prevent many complications from this disease.”
Knowing your family’s health history is another crucial step to prevention at an earlier age. Also, take notice of consistent pain or unusual symptoms that develop like jaw pain mentioned above.
To learn more about the American Heart Association’s emphasis on female heart health, visit: https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/
