Cardiologists give advice for women to monitor heart disease during pandemic
One in three women die of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association.
February 5 is annual 'Go Red For Women Day' to raise heart awareness.
"Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women over 25 in the United States, regardless of race or ethnicity," Cleveland Clinic Cardiologist Dr. Christine Jellis said.
Jellis urges women to be aware of heart disease, especially during the coronavirus pandemic.
"We've had a number of patients who come in with shortness of breath and symptoms of heart failure and then describe chest pain that occured weeks or even months before when they probably had that heart attack but didn't seek medical assistance," she said, "So they then come forward with the consequences of a damaged heart from the heart attack."
Despite the fears of the pandemic, doctors said seeking medical attention is crucial if women notice any change in their body.
"We worry about the long term debility or even death rates that that type of practice may cause long term so the message is we're here to help. Please don't ignore heart disease," she said.
The American Heart Association said one woman dies about every 80 seconds from heart disease, but 80% of cardiovascular diseases are preventable.
"Cholesterol, weight, hypertension, diabetes and not smoking are the big-ticket items," she said.
Doctors say heart disease in women is significant because their signs are not always as easy to spot as they typically are in men.
"You may be having pain, but it may be in the arm or neck or jaw," she said, "Sometimes women can have a sensation of a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue..."
Doctors advise all women to take part in routine checkups, be aware of family history and seek immediate medical attention if there are changes in the body.
