by: Julie Sliger, Intern, MGH Health Information Center
If you are like most women, you're pretty relaxed about heart disease. The truth is that the latest studies show heart attack is the No. 1 killer of American women.
Although significant progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease and stroke, a greater focus on prevention has also helped. Women can take control of their lives and choose habits that promote cardiovascular health, such as these:
Stop Smoking. Smoking is the most preventable risk factor for heart attack and stroke. Cigarette smoke puts an added strain on the heart because it causes the blood vessels to constrict. Smoking also causes temporary changes in your heart by making the heart beat faster, raises your blood pressure and reduces blood flow. If a woman stops smoking, no matter how long or how much, her risk of heart disease and stroke rapidly declines.
Control your blood cholesterol level. A high level of cholesterol in the blood is a major risk factor for heart disease. The higher your blood cholesterol level, the more likely that fats and cholesterol will build in your artery walls. Knowing your total blood cholesterol level is an important first step in determining your risk for heart disease.
Monitor and control your triglycerides. Triglyceride is the chemical form in which most fats exist. Research suggests that higher triglyceride levels may increase the risk for women more than men.
High blood pressure. High blood pressure is the major risk factor for stroke and also increases your risk of heart and kidney disease. Have your blood pressure checked often, and if it's too high , work with your doctor to treat it. Also limit your intake of sodium and alcohol, and control your weight.
Physical activity. More than 40 studies have shown that lack of physical activity is a major risk factor for heart disease. They found that heart disease is almost twice as likely to develop in inactive people than in those who are more active. Physical activity reduces the risk of a variety of health problems, such as heart disease. The best exercises to strengthen your heart and lungs are the vigorous ones like brisk walking, jogging and swimming. But even moderate activities will reduce your risk of heart disease.
Eat a well-balanced diet that's low in cholesterol and saturated fats and moderate in sodium. A diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol can contribute to atherosclerosis, which is a major contributor to heart disease and stroke.
Taking active steps to gain a sense of peace and fulfillment in your life will not only make life richer, it may help protect you from heart disease.
WellAware
Published quarterly by Marquette General Hospital * 580 W. College * Marquette, MI 49855 * Issue 2 * Spring 1998
A courtesy of the Wellness Institute of Marquette General Hospital. If you would like more information on wellness- related issues or would like to be on our mailing list, please call us at 225-4800 or 1-800-562-9753, Ext. 4800. Margaret Swetish Twichell, Editor & Stacey Brooks, Community Relations, Layout & Design. Printed by MGH Print Shop.