Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Every year, nearly one million women die from heart disease and stroke. This number is staggering, and it’s time to do something about it. In this blog post, we will discuss heart disease in women and what you need to know to protect yourself from this deadly disease.
Heart disease is a broad term that covers a variety of conditions that affect the heart. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become blocked or narrowed. This can lead to a heart attack. Other types of heart disease include congestive heart failure, valve problems, and arrhythmias.
There are many risk factors for heart disease, but some are more common in women than men. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and family history. Women who are postmenopausal have an increased risk of heart disease due to the loss of estrogen. This hormone helps to protect the heart and arteries.
Things you can do to reduce the risk of heart disease:
- Quit smoking
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy diet
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Control cholesterol and blood pressure levels
- Get regular checkups and screenings
If you are concerned about your risk of heart disease, talk to your doctor. They can help you make lifestyle changes and determine if you need medication to help reduce your risk. Don’t wait until it’s too late to take action. Call WomanCare in Arlington Heights, IL at (847) 221-4900 to schedule your appointment. We also have locations in surrounding areas.
Remember, heart disease is a serious problem, but it’s one that you can take steps to prevent. By making healthy choices and being aware of your risk factors, you can help keep your heart healthy for years to come.
Looking to read more about women’s health?
Read our article on Mammograms: What You Need to Know or Endometriosis: What You Can Do.
