Ladies, be your own Valentine this month and give yourself the gift of a healthy heart!
Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer of women? Heart disease affects women of all ages and 64 percent of sudden cardiac deaths occur in women without symptoms. The presentation of cardiac disease can be different from that seen in men. Most of us have heard that chest pain is the most common sign of a heart attack. In women, the disease may be a bit more subtle and the warning signs may include shortness of breath, fatigue, back or jaw pain, and even dizziness.
Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle and poor diet. In addition, a family history of heart disease also puts you at increased risk. While you may not be able to change your genes, there’s plenty you can do to get heart healthy. Make an appointment with your physician to learn how to modify your risk today.
