We tend to think of heart disease as a problem that mainly affects men, but women are just as at risk to develop heart disease as men. We sat down with Susan Kranz, the Fitness and Rehabilitation Director at The Fitness Institute and Pilates Studio in Williamsville, NY, to discuss some of the issues surrounding women and heart disease.
What are the components that lead to heart disease? What are the risk factors? Do the risk factors differ for men and women?
Environment and genetics are the two biggest components in heart disease. And it’s important to note that both women and men have the same risk factors for heart disease. Women need to watch their cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, resting heart rate or stress levels. If a close male relative has had a heart condition before the age of 55 years, then it is considered a genetic risk factor as well. Keeping the body healthy and not overworked are the two biggest ways to help prevent heart disease. Eating right and exercise are more than just for weight loss- they help reduce the stress load on the heart, which prolongs the health of the muscle.
Is heart disease something that only older women should worry about?
All women should worry about heart disease, regardless of age. Women tend to present with heart problems different than men. Most people know to contact a doctor if they’re feeling chest pain, radiating pain down their arm or in their jaw. But women experiencing heart problems also report hot sweats, pain in the back and a crushing feeling in the chest with shortness of breath. The treatment for heart disease is the same for men and women, and the end result is always cardiovascular rehabilitation and a nutritional plan.
What’s the best way to reduce the risk of heart disease?
The best way to reduce the risk of heart disease is to know your numbers and keep them in a healthy range. Keep your weight and BMI in a healthy range through diet and exercise. Keep you heart rate and blood pressure in a healthy range through either medical means if necessary (prescribed by doctor) or through meditation or relaxing extracurricular activities Know you triglyceride and cholesterol levels and control them by whichever means your doctors prescribes and know your families’ history. Preventative plans are the best way to reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Susan has a Masters of Science in health and human performance with a specialization in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation from Canisius College. In her spare time she is an interior firefighter and EMT for the Swormville Fire Company.
To see more from Susan, check out The Fitness Institute and Pilates Studio on TourDeFIT.com!
