Cardiovascular Disease Symptoms
and Risk Factors

Cardiovascular Disease in Women: Risk Factors and Prevention Section 9

Symptoms of a heart attack have until recently been considered to be the same for both men and woman. Or rather, women’s symptoms have been considered to be the same as those seen in men.

A recent study asserts that severe sleeplessness and fatigue might however be unique warning signs in women. Importantly, these symptoms were experienced more than a month prior to the heart attack.

As many as 43% of women in the study never experienced any chest discomfort which has long been considered one of the classic symptoms of a heart attack. Patients and doctors alike need to be educated on these new findings. (Lee)

During post-surgery recovery from a heart related incidence, men are more like to relax and take it easy while women often quickly return to their responsibilities, which usually include household duties.

Even if a physician has recommended otherwise, performing their prior responsibilities helps many women feel valued. They should be reminded to not go back to their usual routines too early during recovery.

Many women’s place of employment is at home and that environment is not ideal for recovery. Because recovery differs between genders, ways to help women recover faster and more effectively, while still feeling valued, are necessary. (McCormick & Bunting)

It is vital that women understand that they are at risk for cardiovascular disease. Not just men need to get their cholesterol checked. Women need to get their cholesterol checked and understand what the levels of HDL and LDL mean.

It also vital that women follow the treatment program their physicians have recommended, whether to cut back on saturated fat or to take medication.

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