Heart Health for Her: Tips for American Heart Month
Did you know? Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. Every year, it takes the life of 1 in 3 women.
February is American Heart Month, and it is the perfect time to learn how to protect your heart—for yourself and the people who love you.
What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease affects the heart and blood vessels. It can include:
- Blocked arteries (coronary artery disease)
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Heart muscle problems
- Heart valve disease
- Heart failure (when the heart can’t pump enough blood)
Women can experience “silent” heart disease. This is because the symptoms differ from those in men, making it harder to diagnose.
Why Are Women More at Risk?
Women are more likely to develop heart disease if they:
- Have high blood pressure during pregnancy
- Had early periods or early menopause
- Have gestational diabetes
Common Risk Factors
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Excess weight
- Diabetes
- Unhealthy diet and no exercise
- High stress or depression
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Autoimmune disorders
- High LDL (bad cholesterol)
Common Risk Factors
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Excess weight
- Diabetes
- Unhealthy diet and no exercise
- High stress or depression
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Autoimmune disorders
- High LDL (bad cholesterol)
Signs of Heart Trouble in Women
During a heart attack, women may feel:
- Chest pressure or tightness
- Unusual tiredness
- Stomach pain, nausea, or heartburn
- Dizziness
- Pain in the neck, jaw, arms (one or both), or back
- Shortness of breath
How to Prevent Heart Disease
You can lower your risk by making heart-healthy choices:
- Eat more fruits and vegetables
- Stay active—even a daily walk helps
- Limit alcohol and quit smoking
- Manage your stress
- Check your blood pressure and cholesterol regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
Talk to your doctor about your risk and how to make a plan that works for you.
Heart Health and Pregnancy
Heart problems during pregnancy come with risks. Conditions like:
- High blood pressure
- Cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease)
- Congenital heart conditions (present since birth)
These can cause serious problems before, during, or after pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to be, work with your doctor to protect your heart.
Sources:
https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/about-heart-disease-in-women/facts
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/women-and-heart-disease.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353118
https://medlineplus.gov/howtopreventheartdisease.html
https://mplsheart.org/womens-heart-health/for-women
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17068-heart-disease–pregnancy
Frequently Asked Questions: Women & Heart Health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women.
No. Women may have different signs, like tiredness, stomach pain, or shortness of breath.
Yes. Risk can begin early—especially with high blood pressure, stress, or poor diet.
Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and talk about your health history.
It can. Some women develop heart problems during or after pregnancy. Always tell your doctor if you have symptoms.
