Women And Heart Disease
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States.
Women’s Symptoms are Different Than Men’s
Women may have different heart attack symptoms than men. Women who develop one or more of the following symptoms while at rest or unexpectedly should seek medical attention immediately. Women need to understand that they, too, are vulnerable for heart disease and delaying treatment can be fatal.
Common symptoms of heart attack in women include:
- Cold sweat
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Unusual fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Pain or pressure in the back or chest
- Pain or discomfort in either or both arms (The pain may be intermittent.)
- Burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen
- Irregular heartbeat
Cardiac disease can be prevented in many cases and is very treatable in most. If it’s been awhile since your last cardiac check-up, you should schedule a screening through Fairview or Lakewood Hospitals’ Women’s Preventive Cardiology Clinic. For just $35, you will be provided various cardiac screenings to evaluate your risk:
- Complete lipid profile and blood sugar
- Blood pressure and heart rate
- EKG
- Body Mass Index
- Stress assessment
- Educational emphasis on awareness in preventing heart disease in women
- Thorough history and physical by a cardiac nurse practitioner
- Referrals to appropriate providers to maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Smoking cessation programs
You will receive a personalized cardiac health plan and a referral to any appropriate providers.
For more information, call:
Fairview Hospital
216.476.7932
Lakewood Hospital
216.529.8500
Lutheran Hospital
216.363.5757