The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our daily routine, affecting various aspects of our lives, including our physical and mental well-being.

Stress and anxiety levels have increased dramatically during this crisis, and women over 45 seem to be the most affected. A new study reveals that women in this age group are experiencing increased infarcts during the pandemic, which could have severe consequences on their health.

The study

The study, which was published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, analyzed the data of 43 patients who were admitted to the hospital with myocardial infarction during the pandemic.

The researchers found that the majority of patients were women over 45. This is a significant increase compared to pre-pandemic numbers, where the ratio of men to women was more balanced.

According to the study, the reasons for this increase are multifactorial. The pandemic has increased stress levels in the population, which can contribute to cardiovascular diseases.

Women in this age group are more likely to have pre-existing conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, which can increase their risk of infarcts. Additionally, women in this age group are often caregivers and have to juggle their work and family responsibilities, which can increase their stress levels and affect their health.

The importance of early detection

Myocardial infarction, commonly referred to as a heart attack, is a severe medical condition that requires immediate medical attention.

The symptoms of infarcts can vary from person to person, but it usually involves chest pain, shortness of breath, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent further damage to the heart muscle and improve the patient’s chances of recovery.

It’s essential to recognize the symptoms of infarcts and seek medical attention immediately. Delaying treatment can have severe consequences and increase the risk of complications.

Women over 45 should be particularly vigilant during this crisis and seek medical help if they experience any suspicious symptoms.

The role of prevention

Prevention is always better than cure, and this applies to infarcts as well. There are several steps women over 45 can take to reduce their risk of infarcts during the pandemic. Here are some of them:.

1. Stay active

Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels and improve cardiovascular health. Women over 45 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

2. Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet is essential for good health, and it can also help reduce the risk of infarcts. Women over 45 should aim for a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

3. Manage stress

Stress can have severe consequences on our health, including cardiovascular diseases. Women over 45 should find ways to manage their stress levels, such as practicing mindfulness, yoga, or talking to a therapist.

4. Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check

High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can increase the risk of infarcts. Women over 45 should monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol levels and seek medical attention if they’re not within the normal range.

The bottom line

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our physical and mental health in many ways. Women over 45 seem to be particularly vulnerable to increased infarcts during this crisis, which could have severe consequences on their health.

Women in this age group should be vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience any suspicious symptoms. Additionally, they can take several steps to reduce their risk of infarcts, such as staying active, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, and monitoring their blood pressure and cholesterol levels.