Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant increase in cases of myocardial infarction in women over 45. These infarcts can be serious and even life-threatening.

Due to this alarming trend, it’s important to understand why the crisis is impacting women in this demographic and how to prevent infarctions from occurring.

Why Women Over 45 are at a Higher Risk of Infarcts During the Crisis?

Several factors can contribute to the increased risk of myocardial infarctions in women over 45 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some potential reasons:.

The Stress of the Pandemic

One of the main reasons for the rise in infarctions is the stress caused by the pandemic. As women try to balance their work obligations, homeschooling, and household chores, stress levels have skyrocketed.

This stress can manifest itself physically, increasing the risk of heart disease and infarctions.

Delaying Treatment

Many women are postponing routine and emergency medical care due to pandemic-related concerns. Delaying critical care can increase the likelihood of more severe health conditions such as myocardial infarctions.

Increased Alcohol Consumption and Smoking

The pandemic has resulted in a surge of anxiety and depression, increasing the likelihood of alcohol consumption and smoking.

Women who are smokers or drinkers are at higher risk of developing heart disease than those who don’t use these substances. The pandemic and its aftermath have only exacerbated this risk.

Reduced Physical Activity

The pandemic has limited mobility considerably and outdoor activities. Many sedentary people are now even more sedentary, increasing their risk of heart disease.

Reduced physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can also lead to weight gain, which can further increase the risk of infarctions.

Preventing Infarctions from Happening

The following measures can help prevent myocardial infarctions for women aged over 45:.

Managing Stress Levels

Women should find ways to manage their stress levels, such as practicing mindfulness activities like yoga or meditation or engaging in physical activities that help them relax.

Scheduling Medical Appointments

During the COVID-19 pandemic, medical facilities have implemented numerous safety measures to protect patients. Women should not postpone their medical appointments and seek immediate medical care if they experience any symptoms of a heart attack.

Staying Active

Women should continue to stay physically active despite pandemic-related limitations in access to facilities and recreational areas. Regular physical activity improves not only cardiovascular health but also mental health and overall wellbeing.

Quitting Smoking and Modifying Your Diet

Smoking is a primary cause of heart disease and stopping smoking can have significant health benefits. Additionally, one should modify their diet by consuming more whole foods and fewer processed foods to maintain a stable and healthy body weight.

Conclusion

During these challenging times, it’s important to be aware of the risk of myocardial infarctions in women above 45 and how the stress and lifestyle changes caused by the crisis can contribute to these events.

Women can take action to prevent myocardial infarctions by managing stress levels, scheduling medical appointments, staying active, quitting smoking, and modifying their diets. By taking these steps, women can improve their health outcomes and avoid life-threatening situations.