February is American Heart Month, a time when we should all pay extra attention to our cardiovascular health. For women over the age of 50, there are a few key factors that deserve special consideration when it comes to heart health. According to experts, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, with nearly 45% of women over 20 years old living with some form of CVD. It’s important for women to be aware of the gender-specific risk factors that can contribute to heart disease.
Menstrual history and adverse pregnancy outcomes are two gender-specific risk factors that women should be aware of. Other factors include anxiety and depression, certain breast cancer treatments, and rheumatologic conditions. Dr. John Whyte, the chief medical officer of WebMD, also highlights menopause as a primary risk factor for women over 50. The decrease in estrogen levels after menopause is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, which is why there is often an increase in heart attacks around this age.
High blood pressure and high cholesterol are also common issues that can become more challenging to control as women age. Changes in cholesterol levels, including increases in LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and decreases in HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol), can elevate the risk of heart disease. Diabetes risk also increases with age, which significantly raises the chance of heart disease. Other health factors such as obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle can further contribute to heart disease risk.
It’s important for women to be aware of the symptoms of heart problems, as they can often be different from those experienced by men. While men may experience classic chest pain that radiates down the left arm, women may notice unusual or extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, indigestion, jaw pain, neck pain, or upper back pain. These symptoms should not be ignored, and women should seek medical attention if they experience them.
Routine exams and screenings are crucial for monitoring heart health. Blood pressure screenings are essential, as hypertension is often referred to as a silent killer. An annual cholesterol profile check can monitor levels of HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Blood glucose tests can help monitor diabetes, which is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, an electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) can check for heart rhythm abnormalities.
Developing a trusting relationship with a primary care clinician is vital for determining the need for further evaluation and testing. Women should ask questions about prevention strategies and appropriate cardiovascular testing for their specific needs.
The majority of cardiovascular disease is preventable through lifestyle changes, heightened awareness, and education. Women should know their numbers, including cholesterol levels, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, and blood sugar. These risk factors can be modified through lifestyle changes.
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for heart health. Women should focus on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins like fish and poultry, nuts and seeds, legumes, coffee, and tea. It’s important to limit sugary foods and drinks, saturated and trans fats found in red meat, butter, cheese, and processed foods, as well as excess salt.
Regular physical activity is also essential for heart health. Women over 50 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Starting with small increments and gradually increasing activity levels is key to success.
Other strategies to keep the heart happy include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and practicing stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing.
In conclusion, women over 50 should prioritize their cardiovascular health by being aware of the gender-specific risk factors for heart disease. Regular screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals are essential for preventing and managing heart disease. By taking control of their heart health, women can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and live longer, healthier lives.
