Heart Disease in Women
With better medical research of heart disease in women, we now know that the effects of heart disease on men and women can be quite different, but both men and women need to be concerned about and must take good care of their hearts. Preventive tactics against heart disease can be equally effective for both men and women if undertaken early enough.
If you are like most Americans, you probably believe that heart disease is more prevalent for men. Certainly most of the research to date focused on men. However, this is actually a misconception for women over 65. Men tend to have heart disease seven or eight years earlier than women but after the age of sixty-five the risk is roughly even. According to a study, heart disease is the number killer of women of 65 or more of age. In addition, even with all types of cancer combined, American women are four to six times more likely to die of heart disease than cancer.
Studies show that men are more likely to survive a heart attack caused by heart disease than their female counterparts. Women may have decreased survivability due to a more fragile heart, or smaller vessels, or they may be less likely to survive because they are less apt to see a doctor with the first symptoms. Whatever the reason more research is needed to prevent higher fatality rates due to heart disease in women.
Unfortunately, we can not change our genes. It is important to always make sure that your doctor has an accurate family history, especially for women. But there are a number of things that women can control in order to lower the risk of heart disease. Women, for example, should not smoke tobacco especially if on birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels are key factors in preventing heart disease in women. If diet alone is not good enough to lower the blood pressure and cholesterol, prescription medication might be necessary. You should discuss this with your primary physician and follow through with any recommended plan to reduce your risks of heart disease.
Extra weight puts more strain on the arteries and heart. Losing weight, especially if you're overweight, means you'll also lower the risk of other dangerous illnesses such as stroke and diabetes. Along with losing the extra pounds, you must exercise regularly. The heart is a complex muscle, and not unlike the other muscles in your body, it must be exercised regularly to keep it in top condition.
There are many indoor and outdoor aerobic exercises that work the heart. Swimming, running, or cycling would be a few smart choices. You can use the treadmill or exercise bike as well.. It is recommend that you get at least 20 minutes of heart-pumping interval training exercise three days a week. However, consult with your doctor before undertaking this or any other exercise regimen.
Reversing Heart Disease
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