Heart health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and it affects both men and women. However, research has shown that heart disease affects women differently than men.

In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States. While many factors contribute to heart disease, there is one top threat to women’s heart health:.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a condition that affects the heart and blood vessels. It includes coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and other conditions that affect the heart’s ability to function properly.

CVD is responsible for the majority of heart disease cases in women. In fact, one in three women have some form of CVD, and CVD kills more women annually than all forms of cancer combined.

How CVD Affects Women

Women may experience different symptoms of CVD than men. The most common symptom of CVD in women is chest pain or discomfort.

However, women are more likely than men to experience other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, back or jaw pain, and fatigue. Additionally, women are more likely than men to have a silent heart attack. A silent heart attack occurs when there are no noticeable symptoms, but damage occurs to the heart muscle.

Women are also more likely than men to have certain risk factors for CVD, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Additionally, hormonal changes during menopause can increase a woman’s risk of developing CVD.

Preventing CVD in Women

Preventing CVD in women involves making lifestyle changes and managing risk factors. The following strategies can help reduce a woman’s risk of developing CVD:.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is important for maintaining heart health. Women should aim for a diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.

Instead, focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.

Be Physically Active

Engaging in regular physical activity can lower a woman’s risk of developing CVD. Women should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Additionally, strength training exercises can help maintain muscle mass and improve overall fitness.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese can increase a woman’s risk of developing CVD. Maintaining a healthy weight through a combination of healthy eating and physical activity can lower this risk.

Manage Risk Factors

Managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes is essential for preventing CVD. Women should work with their healthcare providers to manage these conditions through lifestyle changes and/or medication.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for CVD. Quitting smoking can lower a woman’s risk of developing CVD, as well as other health problems.

Reduce Stress

Chronic stress can increase a woman’s risk of developing CVD. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help manage stress and lower the risk of CVD.

Get Regular Health Check-Ups

Regular health check-ups are important for identifying and managing risk factors for CVD. Women should work with their healthcare providers to schedule regular check-ups and screenings.