Recent studies have shown that heart disease in women can be different from that in men.
Currently, in the U.S., more women die from heart disease than from any other cause. Heart disease risk increases after menopause.
In addition, many younger women experience heart problems.
FDA cardiologist Shari Targum, M.D., M.P.H., provides 8 health tips for women to prevent heart disease.
Know your health risks related to heart disease
To reduce heart disease risk, it is important to know your risk factors.
The factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking and a family history of premature heart disease.
Control current health conditions
This means women should take care of their diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
They should talk to their doctors about the best health plan.
Know the symptoms of a heart attack.
Common signs of a heart attack include pain or tightness in the chest, arms, neck, jaw, back, or abdomen; shortness of breath; nausea/vomiting, lightheadedness, extreme fatigue and breaking out in a cold sweat.
Research has shown that women are more likely than men to have symptoms like back pain, jaw pain, shortness of breath, indigestion, and nausea/vomiting.
Take exercise regularly and avoid obesity
Keeping doing moderate physical activities every day is important for a healthy heart.
In addition, maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent obesity, which is a big factor for heart disease.
Eat a heart-healthy diet
It is important to eat fruits and vegetables in each meal and reduce saturated fat and added sugars.
Women should also focus on whole grains instead of refined grains. Too much red meat and processed meat may be harmful to heart health.
Use aspirin wisely
Research has shown that daily aspirin is not right for everyone. For healthy people, they only need to take aspirin rarely to reduce heart attacks or strokes.
It is important to talk with doctors before using aspirin to protect your heart health.
Do not smoke tobacco
Smoking can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. If you smoke, try to quit.
Talk to your doctor about whether you can participate in a clinical trial for a heart medication or procedure
A clinical trial is a research study that involves human volunteers to test a new treatment for a disease. It may help develop new methods to treat heart disease.
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