While many perceive heart disease to be a male issue, it’s the leading cause of death in women. The American Heart Association reports that one in three women die from heart disease every year.

Cardiac arrest – a sudden and often fatal event – is a particular concern for women. Generally linked to coronary heart disease and heart attack, cardiac arrest can also present in individuals with no previous cardiac health issues.

Obesity & Weight Management

Obesity and excess weight can put significant strain on the heart, increasing the risk of cardiac arrest. In fact, obese women face a 60% higher chance of cardiac arrest than their healthy peers.

Maintaining a healthy weight ensures that the heart isn’t overburdened – reducing the risk of an unforeseen cardiac event. Focusing on a balanced diet and adequate exercise levels is key to maintaining healthy weight levels, reducing the risk for cardiac arrest.

High-Sugar Diets & Inflammation

Sugar intake can cause inflammation in the body – leading to chronic disease and potentially cardiac arrest. High-sugar diets can also cause weight gain, which contributes to additional stress and strain on the heart.

Reducing sugar intake – from processed foods, sweets, and sugary drinks – is an important step towards reducing chronic inflammation and the risk for cardiac arrest.

Stress Levels

Women dealing with high stress levels also have a higher risk of cardiac arrest. Stress can lead to elevated blood pressure and has a direct impact on the heart.

Chronic stress can lead to heart disease – making it vital to identify and manage stress in a healthy way. Exercise, meditation, and other stress-reducing techniques can help to ensure a healthy heart and reduce the risk of cardiac arrest.

Smoking Habits

Smoking increases the risk of coronary heart disease and also increases the likelihood of cardiac arrest. The toxic chemicals in cigarettes can cause damage to the lining of arteries – making it more difficult for the heart to pump blood.

Quitting smoking is one of the best things women can do to reduce their risk of cardiac arrest, as well as for overall health and wellbeing.

Chronic Conditions & Medications

Chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, contribute to an increased risk of cardiac arrest.

Women taking medications for chronic conditions should have regular check-ups with their doctor and monitor any changes in their health closely. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help manage these conditions and reduce the associated risk of cardiac arrest.

Pregnancy Complications

Pregnancy is a potential risk factor for cardiac arrest, especially for women who experience complications.

Preeclampsia – a pregnancy-related condition marked by high blood pressure – is associated with an increased risk of cardiac arrest both during and after pregnancy. Women with a history of preeclampsia should be extra vigilant about cardiovascular health and monitor their blood pressure and overall health.

Sleep Apnea

Disordered breathing during sleep, known as sleep apnea, is another risk factor for cardiac arrest. Women who snore heavily or experience pauses in their breathing during sleep may have sleep apnea and should seek medical attention.

Treatment, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, can reduce the risk of cardiac arrest associated with sleep apnea.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

High levels of alcohol intake can lead to elevated blood pressure, weight gain, and chronic inflammation – all contributing factors for cardiac arrest.

Women should monitor their alcohol consumption and limit themselves to no more than one alcoholic drink per day. Drinking in moderation can help to reduce the risk of cardiac arrest.

Inherited Heart Conditions

Some women may have an inherited heart condition that increases their risk of cardiac arrest. These genetic conditions can cause the heart to function abnormally and increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.

Women with a family history of heart disease or sudden cardiac death should have genetic testing and speak to their doctor about the associated risks.

Final Thoughts

While there are multiple factors that contribute to the elevated risk of cardiac arrest for women, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk.

Maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, quitting smoking, managing chronic conditions, monitoring sleep apnea, limiting alcohol intake, and speaking to a doctor about family history are crucial steps towards a healthy heart. Prevention can go a long way in reducing the risk of an unforeseen cardiac event.