Heart Disease is Equal Opportunity Killer

            February may be designated as Heart Month, but heart disease is a serious matter every day of the year. Heart disease is America’s No. 1 killer and according to the American Heart Association, more women die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined.

            “Heart disease often is thought of as a disease that strikes men more than women,” said Douglas County Health Director, Dr. Adi Pour. “Our data shows that is not the case.”

            Final statistics for 2010 show that 394 Douglas County women died of heart disease compared to 376 men during the year.

            According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, coronary artery disease can lead to a heart attack. You are more likely to survive a heart attack if you know the symptoms and call 9-1-1 quickly.

            The five major symptoms of a heart attack are:

·         Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.

·         Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint.

·         Chest pain or discomfort.

·         Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder.

·         Shortness of breath.

            While these are the major symptoms, in many cases, especially those involving women, the symptoms often are less severe and may be as subtle as a flu-like feeling.

            While heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death, Dr. Pour pointed out there are many things that can be done to reduce the chances that you will have a heart attack.

            Those include: preventing and controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol; monitoring diabetes; avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke; limiting alcohol use; maintaining a healthy weight; being active; and eating healthy food.

            Consuming less sodium also is an excellent way to reduce your chances of a heart attack.

            “Other diseases may receive more attention, but heart disease is the top killer,” Dr. Pour stated.