Support Us Button Widget
Sponsored Content

What women need to know about heart disease

“It is imperative that women take charge of their heart health today, not only for themselves but for the future of their loved ones,” says cardiologist Dr. Bryan of Prisma Health.

Sponsored by
Three people sit on the grass by a body of water and smile for a photo as one person holds up a cell phone to take a picture.

Knowing your numbers, the symptoms of heart disease, and your family history is all part of committing to a heart-healthy lifestyle that could save your life.

Photo provided by Prisma Health

Table of Contents

February in GVL isn’t just for roses from Dahlia and chocolates from Lowes Foods (although, it’s for that, too). Since today is Valentine’s Day and this month celebrates American Heart Month, it’s a time for self-love. Read: Understanding how to keep your ticker as healthy as can be, because the more you know about heart disease, the better chance you have of beating it.

The ugly truth is, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women in the United States. That includes women with obvious risk factors (e.g. being overweight or smoking) as well as seemingly fit women with silent, but just as deadly, risk factors, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

So, how can a woman protect her heart’s health?

Cardiologist Andrea Bryan, MD, of Prisma Health shares these three recommendations for how to show your heart some love this Valentine’s Day (and every day):

  1. Know the symptoms of a heart attack. While women can experience that classic chest pain feeling of “an elephant sitting on your chest,” like men typically do, women are actually more likely than men to experience other symptoms of a heart attack, such as:
    • Fatigue
    • Chest pressure
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Back pain
    • Jaw pain
  2. Know your numbers. This refers to key markers of heart health like cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure. An astounding 90% of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease, and many don’t even know it.
  3. Know your family history. If an immediate relative has had a heart attack, stroke, or heart disease, then you’re more likely to have it as well — even if you exercise + eat right. Keep up the heart-healthy activities, but also keep tabs on the potential underlying issues.

When was the last time you checked your heart’s health?

Take a free 5-minute assessment

More from GVLtoday
To help make your entire process at the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport as smooth as possible, we’ve created a guide that covers everything from parking to details on the airport’s nonstop flights.
“Beyond the Burrow” is a new public art initiative by the City of Travelers Rest, highlighting local artists and TR’s history.
Unity Park’s Honor Tower will pay tribute to local military and first responders, and architect Paul Endres says he hopes the design “unifies the city and helps bring people together.”
Ready for your lunch break? From tacos to smoothies, check out these $10 or less lunches.
It’s the end of an era at Brick Street Cafe as Miss Sue hangs up her apron after 30 years.
If all goes as planned, The Inn at Altamont will open in 2030 as a resort for visitors and locals to enjoy mountain views and luxury amenities.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up farmers markets around Greenville, SC.
With Valentine’s Day rapidly approaching, we want to share the love — specifically, your love. Share your Greenville meet cute stories with us. We have something special planned for them.
The SC Agritourism Passport program is a fun and interactive way to explore our state’s farms.
The sweet informal holiday has been celebrated for 55+ years.