Women and Heart Disease: Know the Signs

It's often thought that heart disease only affects men, but it affects women too.

• 44 million women are affected every year.
• 1 in 4 deaths in women result from heart disease.
• 90% of all women have one or more heart disease risk factors.

The good news:

• 80% of risk factors can be controlled through lifestyle changes.
• Greater awareness can improve the chance of catching heart disease sooner.

Why isn't heart disease detected in women more often?

• Symptoms can often be different than the well-known symptoms in men.
• Some women show no symptoms.
• Noticeable symptoms may be ignored or dismissed.

What are the traditional risk factors for heart disease?

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Inactivity
• Obesity
• Smoking*

*Carries greater risk in women

What are the unique risk factors for women:

• Menopause
• Mental stress and depression
• Pregnancy complications

Symptoms and signs common in women:

• Lightheadedness
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Neck, jaw, shoulder or upper back discomfort
• Chest pain, pressure or discomfort
• Pain in one or both arms
• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal discomfort

What women can do to reduce risk and take control?

Take control of risk factors

• Take up exercise.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet with whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat proteins.
• Quit smoking.

Speak up and request screening

• Schedule wellness visits and ask for screening.
• Know your numbers — blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose.

Be proactive

• If you are experiencing symptoms that could be due to your heart, get help.
• Don't wait to call 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room.

Sources: MayoClinic.org; CDC.gov; Heart.org; GoRedForWomen.org; WHO.int.