INFINITY Information Bureau News: Heart disease in women in their 50s is a surprisingly common risk! Check out the measures explained by a specialist! #HeartDisease #WomenIn50s #Health
Video explanation
Heart disease in women over 50: what doctors really need to know
Hello, I'm John! I hope to help ease your worries about health and money, even just a little. Today's topic is about heart disease, which is especially important for women over 50. Some of you may be thinking, "Oh, this doesn't concern me," but it's not just someone else's problem. By reading this article, you'll surely understand your risk of heart disease and the preventative measures you can take starting today!
Heart disease in women is actually so common
"When you think of women's health issues, many people may think of breast cancer and uterine cancer.Heart disease is a very real problem for women over 50According to statistics, heart disease is often one of the leading causes of death among women. Some people may be surprised by this fact and ask, "Is that so?"
It is said that the risk of heart disease increases especially for postmenopausal women because of a decrease in the female hormone estrogen, which protects the heart. You may have the impression that men are more susceptible to heart disease when they are young, but as they get older, women also need to be more careful.
Why does the risk increase after age 50?
A woman's body undergoes major changes around the age of 50.MenopauseDuring menopause, the function of the ovaries gradually declines, and the secretion of the female hormone estrogen drops significantly.
Estrogen keeps blood vessels flexible and suppresses bad cholesterol (bad lipids in the blood), protecting the heart and blood vessels. Therefore, when estrogen decreases, the following changes become more likely to occur, increasing the risk of heart disease.
- High blood pressure: A condition in which pressure on blood vessels increases. High blood pressure puts strain on the heart.
- Dyslipidemia: A condition in which there is too much bad cholesterol and neutral fat in the blood, making blood vessels more likely to become clogged.
- Arteriosclerosis: The hardening and fragility of blood vessels. If this progresses, it can lead to myocardial infarction and stroke.
Menopause is a natural change that everyone goes through, but it's especially important to be conscious of your heart health at this time.
Signs of heart disease in women: They may differ from men
When you hear the signs of heart disease, many people may imagine "severe pain as if the chest is being squeezed." Of course, that is one of the most common symptoms. However, for women,Signs that are easy to overlook but different from men'smay also appear.
For example, symptoms include:
- Persistent fatigue: I can't get rid of my fatigue even after getting enough rest.
- shortness of breath: Even small movements, such as climbing stairs, make you out of breath.
- Nausea or stomach discomfort: Symptoms such as indigestion or stomach upset.
- Back, neck, jaw, and shoulder pain: Pain may occur in places other than the chest.
- Sleeping disorder: Difficulty falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night.
- Dizziness or cold sweats
Some of these symptoms can easily be mistaken for menopausal disorders or other illnesses. It is important not to self-diagnose as "Maybe it's because I'm getting older?" or "Maybe I'm just tired," but to consult a specialist as soon as possible if you feel that something is different from usual.
What you can do today to protect your heart
You may be wondering, "So, what should I do?" Don't worry! There are many things you can do in your daily life to reduce your risk of heart disease. It's not something special, just a little effort every day is important.
1. Eat a balanced diet
The basis of a heart-healthy diet is to eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains (such as brown rice and whole wheat bread), and quality protein (such as fish, chicken breast, and soy products).
- Avoid salt: Prevents high blood pressure.
- Avoid saturated and trans fats: It is found in large amounts in fatty meat, processed foods, sweets, etc. These can increase bad cholesterol.
- Eat plenty of fiber: Vegetables, mushrooms, seaweed, etc. They help reduce the absorption of cholesterol.
2. Make moderate exercise a habit
Moderate exercise (such as brisk walking) of about 150 minutes per week is recommended. You don't have to do hard exercise right away. Start with something you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Even just consciously moving your body while doing housework or commuting can be effective.
3. Quit smoking
Smoking is one of the biggest causes of heart disease. Tobacco damages blood vessels and accelerates arteriosclerosis. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. If you find it difficult to quit smoking, it is a good idea to receive advice from a specialist at a smoking cessation clinic.
4. Manage stress well
Stress can also put strain on the heart, so find ways to relieve stress that work for you, such as taking up a hobby, listening to relaxing music, or practicing meditation or yoga. Getting enough sleep is also important.
5. Get regular health checks
It is important to regularly check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, etc., and keep track of your physical condition. If you find any abnormalities, you can take action early. Especially if you are over 50 years old, you should have a health check once a year.
Author's comment
After reading this article, I realized once again how heart disease is a familiar issue for women over 50, and how important it is to review our lifestyle habits. I myself would like to protect my health through small, everyday actions. I hope that this article will encourage you to take the time to think about your own health.
This article is based on the following original articles and is summarized from the author's perspective:
What Women 50+ Need To Know About Heart Disease Risk, From
An MD