Risks of Heart Disease after Menopause

Women generally don’t have to worry about heart disease for a good part of their lives.  The fact is, estrogen plays a very important role in protecting a woman from certain diseases including heart disease and stroke.  As she ages however, the body gradually reduces the amount of estrogen produced by the ovaries until it stops completely and women is said to be in a full menopausal state.  Menopause is defined as not having had a menstrual period for twelve consecutive months.  Along with that, there is a whole array of symptoms that accompany the loss of menstruation.  For example, urinary incontinence, weight gain, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, depression and or anxiety are very common.  It is at this point that a woman’s risk of dying from heart disease increases dramatically.  Therefore it is helpful not only to be aware of this fact, but to make some changes as early as possible to prevent this dangerous disease.  According to the American Heart Association, in any given year, more women will die of heart disease than cancer.

While menopause is not the sole cause of this disease, by the time a woman reaches her 50^th birthday, she has most likely experienced years of poor diet and lack of exercise according to statistics.  This accumulation of bad habits, along with the lack of estrogen to protect her, makes her a good candidate for a heart attack or a stroke.  However, all is not lost.  There are some measures a woman can take to prevent a tragedy, although there are no guarantees.

It is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of heart failure which can be characterized as follows:  Lethargy, trouble catching your breath, chest tightness and/or pain, unexplained shoulder pain, trouble speaking.  If you experience any of these symptoms, YOU MUST SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.  Many people are embarrassed to call an ambulance if they are unsure of their situation, but it is better to be safe than sorry.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent heart disease:

1) Increase your level of physical activity – an exercise regimen which includes some aerobics for at least 30 minutes per day.

2) Reduce salt & sugar intake – many processed foods contain excessive amounts of salt and sugar, and sugar also increases triglycerides.

3) Quit smoking – smoking increases your risk of heart disease

4) Know your family history – genetics play a huge role in your risk factor for heart disease and stroke, so take note of the health of your parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters.

5) Eat a healthy diet – a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes, and chicken and fish

6) Reduce alcohol intake – it is wise to limit your alcohol to one or two drink max per day

Menopause is an important and inevitable period in a woman’s life which should be embraced and cherished despite the changes occurring in her body.  With a few simple modifications and awareness, you can take control of your health and your future, and the quality of your life.