SEATTLE — Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. While heart disease affects women of all ages, the risk increases after menopause.
“This is not just a man’s disease,” said Dr. Anuradha Kolluru, board-certified cardiologist and cardio-oncologist. “Heart disease affects everyone.”
Women can focus on heart health and preventing heart disease by taking steps to lead a healthier life.
“The first priority is stopping smoking, vaping, of course as well, and really focusing on a heart healthy diet,” said Dr. Heidi Nicewarner, board-certified cardiologist.
Common diets for optimal heart health include a Mediterranean-style, low sodium or plant-based diet. Regular exercise is also important. Doctors recommend 75 minutes of vigorous exercise or 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
It’s also key to manage stress as much as possible and limit alcohol consumption. Sleeping for seven to nine hours a night is also ideal.
“All of us need different amounts, but that’s a good average to think about,” Dr. Nicewarner said.
Warning signs of a heart attack in women can be vague. More common symptoms include pain, pressure or a squeezing sensation in the chest and pain in the arms, shoulders, neck, stomach or jaw. Vague symptoms include generally feeling unwell, being more tired than normal or experiencing flu-like symptoms.
“Women have less typical symptoms than men,” Dr. Kolluru said. “They also have less chest pain compared to men when they have a heart attack.”
It’s important to not delay getting medical attention if symptoms are persistent or impeding your day-to-day life.
“Delay in care leads to poor prognosis in women,” Dr. Kolluru said. “If you have any symptoms or you’re concerned about any symptoms, don’t wait. See your doctor or call 911.”
Providers at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health can help women understand symptoms and recommend next steps.
“It’s important to say that all of our cardiologists are really sensitive to some of these issues unique to women, so the presentation being a little bit different and also looking for specific risk factors that affect women predominantly,” Dr. Nicewarner said.
Dr. Kolluru says it’s important to focus on the alphabet when it comes to heart health.
- Ask your doctor about your risk for heart disease, identify family history and know risk factors.
- Blood pressure control
- Cholesterol control
- Diabetes management
- Eating healthy, exercising and educating
To learn more about women’s cardiovascular health, visit the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health website.
Sponsored by Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.
Segment Producer Suzie Wiley. Watch New Day Northwest at 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.