Heart Health

Listen to your heart: Understanding the importance of female heart health

For years, the education and awareness of heart attack risks focused mostly on men. More recently, there has been a shift to ensure that women pay attention to their heart health. Our San Antonio women’s clinic doctors are committed to supporting the overall well-being of our patients, including addressing any concerns about heart health.

The 411 on women and heart disease

While many women think about issues such as breast cancer, infertility and menopause, they don’t worry much about heart health. However, our San Antonio women’s clinic doctors want to raise awareness of this important health concern.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the leading cause of death for women in the United States is heart disease. Additionally, one of the major risk factors for heart disease is high blood pressure, and the CDC estimates that more than 45% of women in this country are receiving treatment for this condition.

Consider these key points.

  • Cardiovascular disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined.
  • Common forms of heart disease include heart failure, an abnormal rhythm of the heart (arrhythmia), heart valve defects, and stroke.
  • Heart disease is kills more new moms than any other condition, with black women having some of the highest mortality rates.
  • Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is referred to as a “silent killer,” and 51.9% of those deaths are women.
  • Many cardiac and stroke events can be prevented through education and lifestyle modifications.

What are the heart attack risk factors for women?

Key health factors that can affect any person’s chances of developing heart-related health concerns include diabetes, obesity, poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol use and lack of physical activity. Unfortunately, women face additional risks based on their reproductive health and pregnancy history.

For example, starting your period before age 11 or entering menopause before age 40 compound your chances of developing cardiovascular health problems. Other reproductive health issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes, hypertension episodes during pregnancy, and pre-term delivery, can all increase your risk of heart disease.

How do you maintain optimal heart health?

So many women take care of their families, jobs and homes, but don’t prioritize their health, which includes taking care of their hearts. Making small changes can have a big impact on ensuring that you live a long, prosperous life. Review these heart health tips from our San Antonio women’s clinic doctors.

  • Regularly monitor your blood pressure and share anything unusual with your physician.
  • Eat a balanced diet that includes complex carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables and lean protein.
  • Strive for 150 minutes a week of physical activity, even if you only have time for short bursts.
  • If you smoke, work on a plan to quit, and don’t pick up the habit in the future.
  • Find positive ways to manage your stress.

At Live Oak Women’s Health, our patients are the priority. We are delighted to serve as your trusted health partner throughout your lifetime. Contact our office for more information about heart disease or to schedule an appointment.