An NHS GP has urged women to learn more about their heart health, as new research suggests 94% of women are unaware that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has any effect .
Many studies have found that women with PCOS are more likely to suffer cardiovascular problems later in life, including a stroke or heart attack.
A survey of 2,000 UK women, commissioned by My Health Checked and conducted by Censuswide, found that 92% are also unaware that experiencing preeclampsia (a condition that causes high blood pressure during pregnancy or postpartum) can put them at risk of suffering a heart attack. problems later in life.
While 87% had no idea that going through menopause is also a risk factor.
Dr Dave Nichols, NHS GP, said: “It is very important for women to understand what can put them at higher risk of heart problems as there is a lot of interaction with their hormones.
“Historically, heart disease has been considered a disease that predominantly affects men, so raising awareness about how it presents in women and the risk factors is crucial.”
While many of the risk factors for heart disease are the same for both sexes, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity, and diabetes, there are risk factors specific to women. women, such as hormonal changes, preeclampsia. or gestational diabetes.
“Symptoms of heart disease can be vague, so it's important to talk to a medical professional if you experience new or unusual symptoms,” he says.
Symptoms may include discomfort in the neck, jaw, or abdomen, indigestion, nausea, dizziness or lightheadedness, sweating, unusual fatigue, headaches, numbness or burning in the arms or fingers, or a sudden feeling of anxiety that may seem like a panic attack.
“It's critical to talk to a medical professional if you're concerned, especially because every woman's body and heart are different,” Nichols said.
However, many women surveyed were willing to make the necessary lifestyle changes to improve their heart health: 62% said they would increase the amount of exercise they did and 53% said they would reduce the amount of salt in their diet. your diet.
Reducing alcohol consumption and less caffeine can also reduce risks.
“Walking more is an easy way to improve your fitness, as is taking the stairs and starting to incorporate bodyweight exercises into your exercise routine,” he added.
“I encourage any smoker, whether cigarette or cigar smoker, to quit to reduce this risk.”
The NHS offers free smoking cessation services. Contacting your GP for advice would be a good place to start. Nicotine replacement products are often used to help patients on their journey.
“Increase the amount of Omega 3 in your body to help improve your blood lipid profile and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease,” advises Nichols. “Oily fish is the best source of Omega 3 fats and consuming more is the easiest way to increase its absorption.” But if you can't eat enough, supplements are recommended.
“Having a diet high in sugar, for example drinking large amounts of soft drinks, can have significant effects on health, especially when consumed long term.”
MyHealthChecked's Heart Profile DNA test (£54.00 from Boots) analyzes DNA to show any risks associated with your heart health.
