More women die from heart disease than all cancers combined

Story by: Lynne Choate on February 1, 2017

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death among women regardless of race or ethnicity. Even more staggering is that more than 267,000 women die each year from heart attacks.

“Heart disease is robbing us of our mothers, sisters and friends,” said Theresa Byrd, R.N., a patient educator with Norton Women’s Heart & Vascular Center. “It is time to take a hard look at the signs and symptoms while also making lifestyle changes to reduce your personal risk.”

Several Norton Heart Care providers have come together to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms associated with heart attack in women. Signs can be different among men and women; therefore, it is important to know the symptoms and what you need to do to save your life or the life of someone close to you.

Each week a different provider will discuss a women’s heart attack symptom. Topics include:

Chest pain

Arm, back, neck or jaw pain

Shortness of breath and lightheadedness

Indigestion and nausea or vomiting

Sweating

If you think you or someone near you is having a heart attack, always call 911. EMS can begin lifesaving treatment en route to the closest hospital.

Learn more about caring for your heart

Throughout February, Norton Heart Care is offering a variety of events to learn more about having a healthy heart. Click for the list.