When someone has a heart attack in the movies or on TV, it’s often quite dramatic, with no signs or symptoms that something is about to happen. But in the real world, paying attention to our bodies and being aware of common risk factors can help prevent the complications of heart disease.

Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States, and according to Dr. Kalife Kuri, M.D., women and men often experience different symptoms.

While men typically complain of chest pain, Dr. Kuri notes that women often experience shortness of breath, fatigue and discomfort in other parts of their body like in the jaw or arm. “Sometimes you have to be looking for other things,” he says. “A woman’s symptoms may not typically speak to heart disease.”

Heart disease also does not discriminate because of age. While heart disease usually manifests itself in women over 60, younger women can experience abnormalities as well, particularly if they are at risk for the disease.

Understanding the Risk Factors
Understanding if you are at risk for heart disease is essential for early detection and preventing more serious complications. Patients most at risk for heart disease often have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, past or present tobacco use, or a family history of heart disease.

Whether at risk or not, Dr. Kuri advises all women to pay attention to their bodies and the changes that happen gradually, over time. It can be easy to overlook common symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue or even indigestion. “Not all serious illnesses show in a serious or dramatic way. A slower pattern of symptoms can be just as important a reason to seek medical attention,” he says.

Dr. Kuri, a staff cardiologist at the Heart & Vascular Institute of Texas, notes that half of his patients are women. He recommends seeing a primary care physician (PCP) for a first screening, unless there is an extremely high risk for concern or a sudden change in symptoms. PCPs are trained to recognize symptoms of heart disease in women, and can make recommendations for further treatment based on each individual’s needs. If a PCP or cardiologist suspects heart disease, a noninvasive test may be performed. Common tests include an echocardiogram, which is a sonogram that looks at the heart’s muscle and valves, or a treadmill test to assess the effect of stress on the heart during exercise.

Tips for Good Heart Health

• Exercise and Diet – For heart and every form of physical health, Dr. Kuri stresses the importance of regular exercise and a healthy diet. As a general rule, individuals should exercise 30 minutes a day, five days a week, and limit foods with saturated or trans fats, sodium and cholesterol. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat proteins are staples of a heart-healthy diet – yet it’s ok to enjoy a treat now and again!
• Don’t Smoke – Smoking has been proven to affect the incidents of heart disease in the United States. The prevalence of smoking has declined 50 percent over the past 20 years, which has dramatically reduced the risk of heart disease.
• Take Control of Other Health Conditions – For patients with diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, it’s important to keep these chronic diseases under control with medication or other health regimens to prevent further complications.

Because heart disease can affect everyone differently, it’s important for women especially to pay attention to the gradual changes occurring in their bodies. If you have any concerns, Dr. Kuri advises that you speak with your doctor to determine the appropriate course of action.