February is American Heart Month, and it's a critical time to raise awareness about heart health, particularly among elderly ladies. The complexities of senior women's heart health can be a bit complicated, but essential to know. With that in mind, we've put together this comprehensive guide for older adult women to learn about the symptoms of a heart attack, recognize the signs of cardiovascular disease, and determine if they might have experienced a cardiac incident unknowingly.
Heart Attack 101
Heart attacks, medically known as myocardial infarctions (MI), occur when the flow of blood to the heart is blocked. This blockage can lead to severe damage to the heart muscle. Surprisingly, women over the age of 65 are more likely to have a myocardial infarction than their male counterparts. What makes the matter even more alarming is that it's possible to have a coronary incident without even recognizing it due to silent symptoms or misinterpretation of signs.
Symptoms of a Cardiac Episode in Women
The symptoms of a cardiovascular incident in women can be markedly different from the classic signs often associated with men. Women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea, or lethargy. Pain or discomfort may also occur in the back, neck, jaw, or stomach. It's crucial not to ignore these signs, even if they seem trivial, because immediate medical attention can make a lifesaving difference.
Signs of Cardiovascular Concerns
Early knowledge and detection of cardiovascular health concerns are crucial in proactively managing heart health. These concerns encompass a variety of conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and arrhythmia. Some common signs of cardiovascular issues include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- Swollen feet or ankles
Regular medical check-ups and health screenings can help identify these issues early and allow for timely intervention.
How to Know if You’ve Had a Coronary Incident
Silent heart attacks, which show minimal or no symptoms, can be an insidious part of senior women's heart health. They may dismiss the subtle signs as typical signs of aging or menopause. Nevertheless, telltale signs can indicate a possible past cardiac episode. These include the previously mentioned signs and sudden difficulties with exercise or daily activities. If you suspect you've had a silent ischemia, it's imperative to consult with a healthcare professional immediately. Tests and evaluations can help ascertain the situation and provide necessary treatments.
We're Here to Support Seniors
Stay informed and proactive about senior women's heart health as we commemorate American Heart Month. Recognizing symptoms and signs, taking timely action, and seeking professional help are significant steps to ensure we remain in the best health.
For those living in Ellisville, New Augusta, and Hattiesburg, remember that our team at Senior Helpers Hattiesburg is always here to offer help and support. Please contact us for in-home senior care services.