Women tend to be the caretaker, the nurturer, the “make it all better” person in families. Many times, neglecting their own health in the process including their heart health. As February is American Heart Month, all of us are reminded to pay attention to our cardiovascular health as heart disease is the leading cause of death in women and men in the United States.

“It is important to start healthy living – the earlier, the better – that way you can remain healthy,” advises Isaura Cabrera, nurse practitioner with Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C.

Healthy living includes diet, exercise, managing stress, getting adequate sleep each night, not smoking or vaping, and alcohol in moderation or not at all.

“Diet is foundational in managing cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar,” explains Dandan Chen, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.C., general cardiologist at Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C. “All are critical heart health factors.” Dr. Chen explains that choosing to eat a diet low in saturated fats and sugars while high in fiber and nutrients like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help minimize arterial plaque buildup and support good blood pressure.

Embracing a healthier diet can be difficult in today’s culture of dining out and eating on the go. Atlanta Heart Associates nurse practitioner Amanda Lewis reminds us to plan ahead, know the restaurants with healthy food options, order baked, grilled or steamed foods rather than fried foods, opt for vegetables as sides, control portions, and limit or avoid high sugar desserts. Drink water to improve concentration, decrease brain fog, prevent constipation and assist with food breakdown and in regulating hormones.

Speaking of hormones, the risk of cardiovascular events increases as women enter menopause. “Hormonal changes during menopause affect cholesterol levels and contribute to increased blood pressure and body fat,” explains Dr. Chen. “Estrogen has a protective effect on the heart and as it declines, a woman’s risk of heart disease rises.”

Menopause can cause palpitations due to hormonal fluctuations and weight gain. Regular exercise supports heart health through all stages of life by strengthening the heart, improving circulation, and aiding in weight management.

“Choose to move every day,” encourages Camille Nelson, M.D., F.A.C.C., general cardiologist with Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C. “Exercise, dancing, bowling, gardening – all count,” continues Dr. Nelson.

It is recommended that adults should get 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. This can be accomplished through shorter intervals of activity throughout each day. Start slow and gradually increase workout intensity, especially if you are new to exercise. “Symptoms of heart disease can present differently in women, so don’t ignore any persistent changes in your exercise tolerance or energy level,” explains Meryl Braunstein, M.D., F.A.C.C., cardiologist with Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C. “Any chest pain or shortness of breath should be evaluated immediately.”

Heart health is a lifelong commitment. It’s important to know your average blood pressure, recent cholesterol numbers, family heart disease history, keep diabetes under control, destress with vacations or other relaxing activities, be aware of long-term heart disease risks from pregnancy complications and/or cancer treatments, and, most importantly, listen to your body. This is especially important for women as symptoms of heart disease can be more subtle and cause pain in areas other than the chest such as the jaw, neck, and back.

Early heart health care can be lifesaving. Schedule an appointment, same day if needed, with an Atlanta Heart Associates provider should you experience unexplained fatigue, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, palpitations, or have a significant family history of heart disease. Atlanta Heart Associates offers a wide range of specialized tests and services including preventative cardiology tailored to address unique risk factors including impacts to heart function from chemotherapy, radiation, high-risk pregnancy, and hormonal therapy.

Atlanta Heart Associates encourages women and men to be proactive in their heart health by maintaining regular check-ups with their doctor and choosing to live healthy.

Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C.
3333 Jodeco Rd
McDonough, GA 30253
770-692-4000
atlantaheartassociates.com