For a very long time there was a misleading notion that heart disease was not a real problem for women.  Most research was based primarily on men, but now extensive medical research has identified the major heart disease risk factors for women.  Studies have shown that women have undiagnosed warning signs weeks, months and even years before having a heart attack.

            Dr. Charles Jones, an internist with West Texas Medical Associates states, “You should know your specific level of risk.  Since aging and heredity are things you can’t change, concentrate on the risk factors you can control.” 

            Some of the risk factors are:

• SMOKING – This is the most preventable cause of premature death in the country.
• PHYSICAL INACTIVITY – Active women have a 60-75% lower risk of heart disease.
• STRESS AND DEPRESSION – High levels of sustained stress make one more susceptive to serious disorders like heart disease.
• OBESITY & OVERWEIGHT – If you are more than 30% over your ideal weight, you are more likely to develop heart disease.
• HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE – High blood pressure increases the heart’s workload and weakens it over time.
• HIGH CHOLESTEROL AND TRIGLYCERIDES – Women with a total cholesterol over 200 are more susceptible to heart disease and triglycerides are emerging as a significant predictor of risk in women.
• DIABETES – Regardless of age, a woman with diabetes has a risk of heart disease 3 to 7 times higher than a nondiabetic woman.
• ESTROGEN REPLACEMENT THERAPY – The risks and benefits of ERT are less well defined and should be discussed between you and your doctor.

If you suspect you have a heart problem, contact your primary care physician who may in turn recommend you see a cardiologist.  You may schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Jones at 325-224-5711. 

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