Chicago Healers practitioner Dr. Martha Howard, MD offers women these female-specific warning signs and prevention tips.
? Signs that a heart attack is impending may show in women up to a month prior to the actual heart attack. these symptoms include unusual fatigue, sleep disturbances, shortness of breath, indigestion and anxiety. Women displaying these symptoms should not hesitate to contact a doctor.
? More than 50 percent of women in a National Institute of Health study reported shortness of breath and weakness as symptoms of an occurring heart attack. while many men experience chest pains as the primary symptom that a heart attack is in progress, the same is not true in women. other symptoms for women included fatigue, cold sweats and dizziness.
? A high CRP (C-reactive protein) level is a risk factor considerably more prevalent in women and is a sign of blood vessel inflammation. This inflammation is a major risk factor, causing coronary artery plaques to break down or rupture, so have CRP levels checked if you are in a risk group. Maintaining good oral health is a solid preventative measure since chronic dental infection is one of the causes of cardiac inflammation.
? Women who experience pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes during pregnancy are thought to be at a higher risk of early heart disease and should begin to take an active role in reducing controllable risk factors.
Cardiovascular disease can be deadly, but understanding risk factors can play a large role in prevention. If warning signs or symptoms of a heart attack are detected, it is imperative to receive immediate medical attention.
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