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Though awareness about women’s heart health is increasing, less than half of women are concerned about it. Heart disease kills 1 in 4 women in the US alone, making it the number one cause of death. Unfortunately, these statistics don’t scare most women enough to take action. Simply put, it’s important to take steps now to secure heart health in the future. Do, however, consult your physician about specific needs and concerns before starting anything new. Here are several heart-health essentials for women you can embrace today!
Heart-Health Essentials For Women #1: Adopt a Healthful Lifestyle
Two of the most powerful things you can do to preserve your heart health is to eat a healthful diet and exercise regularly. Of course, there is more to it, but these two actions are pillars for good general health. It’s important to understand your current state of health and take steps that help you reach your personal goals.
There are so many diets and eating plans out there, finding what works for you is really the only “right” way to go. Your doctor or nutritionist should help you come up with a plan to decrease your chances of getting heart disease in the future. If you are experiencing problems already, it becomes even more crucial to make changes now.
As far as exercise goes, it’s not necessary to go out and join a gym or do something extreme. Simple things like walking, stretching, yoga, and moving more are all activities that bring greater health. Again, do make sure to consult your health care provider before you engage in any new exercise plan. I find it helpful to focus on what you can do and not what you can’t.
Heart-Health Essentials For Women #2: Know the Signs of a Heart Attack
Knowing your body and being aware of changes is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. This includes understanding the signs of a heart attack or precursor warnings. Also, keep in mind that women may experience different symptoms than men.
The most common symptoms for women are chest discomfort or pain, pain in the neck, back or jaw area, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and nausea. Understand this list is not complete by any means. You could experience a number of other symptoms. Be aware of any changes that don’t feel right to you and consult your physician as soon as possible.
And, of course, seek emergency help if you have symptoms of a heart attack. It also is a good idea for the entire family, including young children, to know how to call 911 and administer CPR if needed. This could save your life.
Heart-Health Essentials For Women #3: Get Regular Checkups
Prevention is always better than dealing with a health crisis when it shows up. Therefore, scheduling annual checkups is imperative for ongoing health. Your doctor knows what to look and listen for where your heart is concerned. He or she can ask questions that reveal underlying problems you may not have thought of. Additionally, if there are concerns, your physician can refer you to a cardiology specialist.
Heart-Health Essentials For Women #4: Take Medications and Supplements as Prescribed
Though I believe we should know our bodies better than anyone on the planet, it’s important to hear what your healthcare providers say. Ultimately, it’s your choice how you want to proceed with treatments and your lifestyle. However, it’s not safe to ever take meds, including over the counter drugs, without advice when you’re in an active disease state. For example, aspirin has been commonly prescribed for heart patients to thin blood and lower risk of heart attacks. And though it could be a life-saver for some people, it may harm others.
Additionally, some natural supplements might be harmful to someone who has heart problems. Or they might also counteract or be unsafe to take with some pharmaceutical medications. Your pharmacist is also a wonderful source of information and advice.
Overall, your heart health is dependent on your common sense choices to be good to yourself on a regular basis. The attitude that it couldn’t happen to you could prove to be your downfall later on. Pay attention to your body and take care to lower your risk in every way you can.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
