Are women at risk?
Yes. Heart illness is the leading cause of death among women over 65. It causes more deaths than all cancers combined.
What do women need to know about heart illness and heart attacks?
Women are less likely to survive heart attacks than men. Warning signs of a heart attack include –
o Chest discomfort
o Discomfort in one or both arms, neck, jaw, back or stomach
o Shortness of breath
o Nausea, lightheadedness, breaking out into a cold sweat
What can women do to protect themselves?
Know your risk. Risk factors are conditions that make a individuals more likely to develop a disease. There are risk factors we can’t change, for example, family history (heredity) and age. Important risk factors that we can change include –
o Make certain to use of tobacco
o High blood pressure
o High blood cholesterol
o Overweight
o Inactivity
o Diabetes
Will hormone replacement therapy (HRT) reduce risk for heart disease?
No. Research results reveal the risk for heart attack and heart disease might actually be increased. HRT can help minimize the signs of menopause (such as hot flashes) and reduce the risk of osteoporosis (weakening of the bones). Consult with your women’s health care provider about your specific questions and concerns.
When you think you or somebody else is having a heart attack, seek help immediately.
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