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Dr. MomDr. Mom explores a wide range of health care topics, such as the best time to introduce solid food into a baby's diet or how to care for dry winter skin. She discusses everything from the latest medical treatments for diabetes to old-fashioned, tried-and-true home remedies for a variety of ailments.

Women & Heart Disease

January 31, 2008

For decades, death from heart disease has been decreasing due to early detection and better treatment options. But a recent study has found a disturbing trend in a certain group and you'll never guess which one. UT Health Center's Dr. Mom has more.

Cardiovascular disease is the #1 cause of death in American women over the age of 25.

One out of every 5 American women has cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease includes heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, heart failure, arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, cardiomyopathy and peripheral arterial disease.

The traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease are:

High blood cholesterol
High blood pressure
Smoking
Obesity or being overweight
Diabetes
Physical inactivity

Additional risk factors for women:

Metabolic syndrome – a combination of high blood pressure, high blood glucose and triglycerides
Mental stress and depression
Low estrogen levels before menopause

Know the signs and symptoms of heart attack.

Warning Signs of Heart Attack:

Chest discomfort
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as the neck, jaw, shoulders, back, or inner arms
Shortness of breath
Breaking out in a cold sweat
Nausea, vomiting
Lightheadedness

If you have are having chest discomfort with any of these other symptoms, call 911 immediately.

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University of Texas Health Center at Tyler

Women & Heart Disease

January 31, 2008