Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. By age 85, 1 in 9 women will develop breast cancer - but 1 in 2 will have heart disease! Although heart disease develops most commonly in women in their later years, women as young as their twenties need to be aware of the disease as well. After menopause, a woman's chance of heart disease increases dramatically. Estrogen hormones during a woman's menstrual cycle help shield her from risk by raising the levels of "good cholesterol," while lowering the amounts of "bad cholesterol." The "bad cholesterol," or LDL, can clog vessels in the heart, leading to a heart attack. Risk Factors In addition to being post-menopausal, there are several conditions that can indicate an increased level of risk. Among them are high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, high levels of "bad cholesterol," an inactive lifestyle, high stress and certain drugs (i.e. cocaine and oral contraceptives for women who smoke.) Lowering the likelihood of heart disease involves lifestyle changes - eliminating the negatives such as smoking and stress, and increasing the positives such as losing weight, eating a diet low in saturated fat and exercising regularly. Signs of Heart Attack

Pain, pressure or discomfort in the chest which persists and may spread to the shoulders, neck arms or jaw

Sudden sweating

Dizziness or fainting

Shortness of breath

Nausea or vomiting

Other Symptoms Women May Experience

A sensation of inhaling cold air

Weakness or a lethargic feeling

Hot stabbing pain between the breasts and to the left armpit

Back pain felt between the shoulders

If you experience any of these symptoms, go to the nearest emergency room for immediate diagnosis and treatment.