Would you recognise the warning signs of a heart attack?
Today is World Heart Day, and the Victorian Heart Hospital welcomed the Health Minister and 10 News to raise awareness of the warning signs of a heart attack and how they can differ between men and women.
Watch the video to hear expert insights from Victorian Heart Hospital cardiologist and Head of the Women’s Heart Clinic, Dr Esther Davis, and the experience of our patient, Shefali.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia, with more than one million Australians living with some form of cardiovascular disease. It is the leading cause of death for women globally, with an average of 20 Australian women dying from heart-related problems each day.
Women are too often dismissed when experiencing a heart attack. Men commonly report squeezing chest pain, pain radiating down the left arm, shortness of breath and nausea. Women also experience chest pain, but are also more likely to experience additional symptoms such as dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue, and nausea.
If you want to take charge of your heart health, here are some easy tips!
- Do not smoke or vape, or take steps towards quitting
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet and watch your salt intake
- Do regular physical activity – aim for 30 mins a day
- Know your numbers – blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar are silent risks for CVD
- Get a 20-minute Heart Health Check with a GP
By adjusting your lifestyle, you can significantly reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.