American Heart Month is an ideal time to spread awareness about heart health, especially among older women. Heart disease remains a leading cause of death for women in the United States, with senior women being particularly vulnerable. Surprisingly, heart attacks can occur without the person being aware of it. This is why awareness of heart attack symptoms is crucial.
Heart Attacks Among Senior Women
A heart attack, medically known as myocardial infarction, occurs when the blood flow to a part of your heart is blocked. This is often due to a blood clot. This can damage or destroy part of the heart muscle. Heart attacks are alarmingly common among senior women. Every minute, a woman dies from heart disease in the United States.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
The primary symptoms of a heart attack can vary, especially in women. Some women might experience the stereotypical chest pain, often described as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest. However, others might not experience chest pain at all. Instead, they might suffer from shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea, or discomfort in the back, neck, jaw, stomach, or one or both arms. Excessive fatigue or breaking out in a cold sweat are also warning signs.
Signs of Cardiovascular Health Concerns
Beyond immediate heart attack symptoms, pay attention to other signs indicating cardiovascular health concerns. These could point toward an increased risk of a heart attack. Unexplained fatigue, dizziness, swelling in the legs, or rapid weight gain can all signal heart-related issues. In addition, irregular heartbeat or palpitations, especially when combined with shortness of breath or fatigue, can be a warning sign.
Observing these signs and discussing them with your doctor will help in the early detection of potential issues. Routine check-ups also allow for timely intervention and treatment.
Identifying a Past Heart Attack
If you've had a heart attack without realizing it, there may still be signs. You might experience ongoing fatigue, reduced ability to exercise, or new discomfort during physical activity. Long-term effects can include damage to your heart, potentially leading to heart failure or arrhythmias.
Seeing a doctor is essential if you suspect a past heart attack. Medical tests like an EKG or a cardiac MRI can identify changes in your heart. They can confirm or rule out a past heart attack. Remember, regular checkups are crucial for detecting these changes early.
Get Support From Senior Helpers Cherry Hill
The importance of heart health awareness cannot be overstated, particularly for senior women. Recognizing and responding to heart attack symptoms and understanding the indicators of cardiovascular health concerns can be lifesaving.
If you or your loved ones in Cherry Hill, Marlton, Mt Laurel, Haddonfield, or Pennsauken need support while living independently at home, Senior Helpers Cherry Hill can help. We provide professional in-home care tailored to the unique needs of the seniors in the community. Reach out to us to learn more about our senior care services.