February Is American Heart Month
Understanding Heart Health in Women
February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and promoting cardiovascular health. While heart disease is often perceived as a predominantly male issue, it remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States. At Strength In You OBGYN, we are committed to empowering women with the knowledge and resources to take charge of their heart health.
Did you know?
- 1 in 5 female deaths in the U.S. is caused by heart disease.
- Only about half of women recognize heart disease as their leading health risk.
- Women are more likely to experience atypical heart attack symptoms compared to men.
In this blog, we will discuss key risk factors, prevention strategies, warning signs, and how you can prioritize your heart health this American Heart Month.
Why Women’s Heart Health Matters
Heart Disease in Women vs. Men
Women’s symptoms of heart disease often differ from men’s and can be harder to recognize. This is one of the reasons why women may be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed when they experience heart issues.
Common symptoms in men:
✔️ Chest pain or discomfort (classic heart attack symptom)
✔️ Shortness of breath
✔️ Arm or jaw pain
Common symptoms in women:
✔️ Nausea or vomiting
✔️ Fatigue
✔️ Dizziness or lightheadedness
✔️ Shortness of breath
✔️ Chest pain (though sometimes milder or absent)
Because women’s symptoms are often subtle, they might delay seeking medical attention, which can lead to serious consequences.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Women
While age and genetics play a role in heart health, lifestyle and medical conditions significantly impact a woman’s heart disease risk.
Major Risk Factors Include:
🔴 High blood pressure – Often called the “silent killer,” it increases strain on the heart.
🔴 High cholesterol – Can lead to plaque buildup and blockages in the arteries.
🔴 Diabetes – Raises heart disease risk, especially in women.
🔴 Obesity – Increases strain on the heart and contributes to other risk factors.
🔴 Smoking – Damages blood vessels and reduces oxygen supply to the heart.
🔴 Sedentary lifestyle – Lack of physical activity weakens heart health.
🔴 Poor diet – High in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
🔴 Stress and mental health – Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can increase heart risks.
🔴 Hormonal changes – Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menopause, and pregnancy-related complications (preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure) affect heart health.
Good news? Many of these risk factors are manageable with lifestyle changes and medical care.
How to Protect Your Heart: Prevention Strategies
Taking proactive steps today can help reduce your heart disease risk and improve your overall well-being.
1️⃣ Know Your Numbers
Regular health check-ups allow you to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight. Understanding these numbers can help detect early warning signs.
2️⃣ Eat Heart-Healthy Foods
🥑 Increase:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats)
- Lean proteins (chicken, fish, plant-based proteins)
- Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil)
❌ Limit:
- Processed foods
- Sugary drinks
- Saturated and trans fats
- Excess sodium
3️⃣ Stay Active
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (such as brisk walking, yoga, or swimming). Strength training twice a week also improves heart function.
4️⃣ Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
🚭 Smoking damages arteries, while excessive alcohol can increase blood pressure. Seek support to quit smoking and drink in moderation.
5️⃣ Manage Stress & Mental Health
High stress levels can lead to increased blood pressure and inflammation. Try:
💆 Meditation & deep breathing
🧘 Yoga
🚶 Spending time outdoors
💤 Getting quality sleep
6️⃣ Routine Check-Ups with Your OBGYN
At Strength In You OBGYN, we emphasize the connection between reproductive health and heart health. Regular screenings can detect early signs of cardiovascular issues, especially for women with PCOS, menopause, or pregnancy-related complications.
Comprehensive Q&A Section
Q: Why should women be concerned about heart disease?
A: Heart disease is the #1 cause of death in women, and symptoms can be different from those in men, making it harder to diagnose. Many women mistake heart disease symptoms for less serious conditions, delaying treatment.
Q: How does menopause affect heart health?
A: Estrogen plays a protective role in heart health. When estrogen levels drop after menopause, cholesterol levels can rise, blood vessels may become less flexible, and heart disease risk increases.
Q: What are the first signs of a heart attack in women?
A: Unlike men, women may experience:
- Unusual fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or dizziness
- Pain in the back, neck, or jaw
- Mild chest discomfort (or no chest pain at all!)
Q: How does pregnancy affect heart disease risk?
A: Pregnancy complications like high blood pressure (preeclampsia), gestational diabetes, or preterm birth can increase a woman’s long-term risk of heart disease. It’s crucial to monitor cardiovascular health post-pregnancy.
Q: How often should I get my heart checked?
A: Women should have their blood pressure checked annually and cholesterol levels tested every 4-6 years. If you have risk factors, more frequent screenings may be needed.
Q: Can birth control pills affect heart health?
A: Yes. Certain oral contraceptives may increase the risk of blood clots and high blood pressure, especially in smokers or women with existing heart conditions. Always discuss options with your OBGYN.
Q: What’s the best diet for heart health?
A: The Mediterranean diet (rich in healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains) is one of the best for heart health. Reducing sugar, salt, and processed foods also supports cardiovascular wellness.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health Today
Your heart health is just as important as your reproductive health, and at Strength In You OBGYN, we are here to support your wellness journey.
Book Your Heart Health Screening Today!
📍 11886 Healing Way Suite 580, Silver Spring, MD 20904
📞 Phone: (240) 554-5505
🌐 Website: strengthinyouobgyn.com
This American Heart Month, commit to prioritizing your heart health—because a strong heart means a strong YOU. ❤️