02/07/2026
I’m fine….. until you’re not.
I’m wearing red today to raise awareness for heart disease in women. It is the #1 killer of women in not only the United States but the WORLD! It accounts for approximately 1 in 3 deaths in women each year, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, yet symptoms are often overlooked, dismissed, or mistaken for stress/exhaustion due to a “staying strong” mentality.
Unlike men, women often experience subtle, long-lasting symptoms without severe chest pain, including intense fatigue, nausea, back pain, or indigestion.
“Strength” Myth: Many women brush off symptoms, prioritizing family or work responsibilities over their own health.
Atypical Symptoms: Women often lack the classic “elephant on the chest” pain, experiencing more diffuse symptoms like pain in the jaw, back, neck, or stomach.
“Silent” Disease: In 62% of cases, women do not experience chest pain during a heart attack.
Prevention and Taking Control
Know Your Numbers: Regularly check blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Prioritize Self-Care: 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, a heart-healthy diet, and smoking cessation can prevent most heart diseases.
Listen to Your Body: Do not dismiss new or persistent physical sensations as merely “being tired” or “stressed”.
Seek Immediate Care: If symptoms are severe or persistent, seek emergency care, as acting fast reduces damage to the heart muscle.
BOTTOM LINE: DO NOT IGNORE SYMPTOMS AND PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE!
❤️
